Michael Irvin Removed as Speaker at Awards Show After Sexual Assault Allegations

Former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver and current NFL Network analyst Michael Irvin was removed as the expected keynote speaker at the Best of River Valley Preps All-Stars Awards in Arkansas due to a sexual assault investigation.

TMZ Sports reported Thursday Irvin's removal from the June event was announced by organization president Jason Taylor, who told the outlet the organizers didn't want the situation to become a "conflict and distraction."

Taylor added: "We don't want to take away from this special night of recognition."

Irvin and his team were "understanding" of the organization's decision, according to TMZ Sports.

Linda Trischitta of the South Florida Sun Sentinel noted Fort Lauderdale police confirmed Irvin is part of the investigation after a woman filed a report early Wednesday.

"He has been named as someone who is being investigated in the case, but he has not been charged with any offense and has not been arrested," Detective Tracy Figone said.

Larry Friedman, Irvin's attorney, also provided a statement to the Sun Sentinel.

"We think this is an extortion attempt," he said. "There was absolutely no assault and no sexual assault."

Irvin has not publicly commented on the matter, but Friedman said his client "unequivocally denies" the allegations made against him. No further information about the alleged assault was released.