Tyson-like tattoo in 'The Hangover' sequel prompts lawsuit by Mo. artist

ST. LOUIS -- The upcoming movie "The Hangover Part II" features Ed Helms' character with a Mike Tyson-like facial tattoo. Now, the Missouri artist who gave Tyson that tattoo is suing the movie company.

S. Victor Whitmill of Waynesville, Mo., filed suit Thursday in federal court in St. Louis against Warner Bros. Entertainment, claiming copyright infringement. The suit seeks financial damages and asks a judge to block use of the tattoo in ads and in the movie that debuts May 26.

A trailer for "The Hangover Part II" shows Helms' character awakening in a bathtub, apparently hung over. One of his friends sees the tattoo and says, "You're going to freak out, but it's going to be OK."

Whitmill was living in Las Vegas in 2003 when he gave Tyson the tattoo.

Warner Bros. did not return a message seeking comment.