Sunderland boxing champion Josh Kelly to receive Freedom of the City
City council backs award for his sporting achievements and ambassador role
Sunderland’s world champion boxer Josh Kelly will be awarded the city’s highest honour, the Freedom of the City, after councillors backed his nomination.
Kelly, known for his Super-Welterweight World Title win, is set to be recognised for his contributions to the city and his role as an ambassador for Wearside.
The decision was made during a full meeting of Sunderland City Council on Wednesday, 24th June.
The Freedom of the City is the highest honour that Sunderland City Council can bestow, given to those who make significant positive contributions to the city’s reputation and wellbeing.
Kelly's nomination came after he etched his name in Sunderland’s sporting history by winning the world title earlier this year.
The proposal is linked to the previous Labour administration and was first revealed in March 2026.
Former council leader Michael Mordey stated that Kelly’s achievements and civic pride make him a fitting candidate for the prestigious award.
The current Reform UK-led council confirmed the nomination during the June 2026 meeting.
Councillor Paul Edgeworth of the Wearside Liberal Democrats expressed support for the nomination and called for a cross-party approach to future nominations.
Reform UK leader Councillor Chris Eynon commended Kelly as an excellent candidate for the honour and supported discussions on future nominations.
Josh Kelly began his boxing career at the Houghton and District Amateur Boxing Club and became the England Boxing Elite Champion in 2013.
He represented Team GB at the Rio 2016 Olympics and turned professional in 2017, acquiring multiple titles.
A ceremony for conferring the Freedom of the City is expected to be held later this year.
Sunderland has a tradition of granting freedoms, having awarded Sister Mary Scholastica and Paul Callaghan earlier this year for their significant contributions.