‘Bird Legs’ Romney to get in Holyfield’s face ‘with compliments and good humor’

Former Massachusetts Gov. and 2012 GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney is taking on former heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield in a charity boxing match Friday night in Utah — and apparently plans to kill Mr. Holyfield with kindness.

“I will get in Evander’s face with compliments and good humor,” Mr. Romney told The New York Times Magazine’s Mark Leibovich when asked if he’ll get in Mr. Holyfield’s face and talk trash. “I want to keep him very happy and very friendly.”

The fight is going to benefit CharityVision, which provides restorative eye surgery to people in poor countries.

“I was affectionately known as Bird Legs during high school,” Mr. Romney said. “I’m afraid the bird legs will be unveiled one more time. But I’m very pleased that Under Armour has agreed to sponsor the bout. They have graciously sent me their apparel items, which I will avail myself of.”