Mike Tyson tattoo leads to 'Hangover II' lawsuit

The tattoo artist behind Mike Tyson's famous face art is attempting to block the release of the upcoming Warner Bros comedy sequel The Hangover Part II over claims of copyright infringement.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, award-winning artist S. Victor Whitmill filed legal papers on Thursday requesting an injunction to stop the release of the film next month, insisting that it infringes the legal rights he has over Tyson's face tattoo.

"When Mr. Whitmill created the Original Tattoo, Mr Tyson agreed that Mr. Whitmill would own the artwork and thus, the copyright in the Original Tattoo," the legal papers stated.

"Warner Bros Entertainment Inc. - without attempting to contact Mr. Whitmill, obtain his permission, or credit his creation - has copied Mr Whitmill's Original Tattoo and placed it on the face of another actor."

The issue in question refers to a character played by Ed Helm in the film, who wakes up from a drunken night to discover that he has a tattoo covering his face, in what is likely to be a direct reference to Tyson's cameo in the original film.

"This unauthorised exploitation of the Original Tattoo constitutes copyright infringement," Whitmill's lawyer added.

Warner Bros has yet to comment on the legal proceedings being brought against them.

The Hangover Part II is currently scheduled for release on May 26.