Josh Taylor: Undisputed champ boxer is to get Freedom of East Lothian honour
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East Lothian councillors approved a nomination for the Tartan Tornado to be made a freeman at a virtual meeting.
Josh, who grew up in Prestonpans, became the first British fighter to become an undisputed world champion in the four-belt era after defeating José Ramírez last month and returned to a hero’s welcome in the town.
The 30-year-old light-welterweight – just the fifth man in history to clean up all four belts in a single weight division - joins Port Seton artist John Bellany, golfer Catriona Matthew, The Royal Scots Borderers, and the Lothians and Border Yeomanry in being given the honour.
East Lothian Provost John McMillan, who nominated Josh for the honour, said: “Josh’s achievements over a relatively short span of time have been outstanding.
“From his early successes as an amateur boxer winning medals at successive Commonwealth Games to his continued success in the highly competitive professional arena, he has excelled.
“His most recent achievement as the first British fighter to become an undisputed world champion in the four-belt era and only the fifth man in the world to achieve this status is testament to his dedication, extensive training and ambition.
“It’s an achievement that’s unlikely to be bettered within his generation of fighters and he is a fantastic role model to local young people across East Lothian.”
Although historically the freeman title came with certain rights within the county, it is now an honorary title awarded as a mark of respect.
A parade to mark Josh’s win is being held this weekend in Prestonpans.