Mike Tyson will appear in director Puri Jegannath’s action movie “Liger”, according to an announcement on Monday, marking the former world heavyweight boxing champion’s debut in an Indian feature.

The film, to be released in different languages including Telugu, Hindi and Tamil, stars actor-producer Vijay Devarkonda as a mixed-martial-arts fighter with a stutter.

Tyson is reportedly appearing in a special role and will feature towards the climax of the movie. Sources say the team behind “Liger” is currently filming high-octane action sequences in Goa.

Considered one of the greatest boxers of all time, Tyson has earned the nickname “The Baddest Man on the Planet” during his two decades as the world No 1.

The 55-year-old has made cameos in many Hollywood films including “The Hangover”, “Rocky Balboa” and “Ip Man 3”. He has also appeared in American television series such as “Entourage”, “How I Met Your Mother” and “Franklin & Bash”.

Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar, who is involved in “Liger”, also confirmed the news of Tyson’s appearance on Monday. “For the first time ever, the king of the ring will be seen on the big screens of Indian cinema! Welcoming @MikeTyson to the #LIGER team!” he wrote on Twitter.

No release date has yet been set.