Freedom of the City

The freedom proposal is for his exceptional sporting achievements and his role as an inspirational ambassador for the city.

Sunderland City Council's decision-making cabinet considered and agreed the proposal on Thursday 26 March. Subject to further backing at a full meeting of the council, a freedom ceremony could be held later this year.

The city has a long tradition of conferring freedoms on citizens who make 'significant contributions to the wellbeing and community spirit of Sunderland'.

Earlier this month, freedoms were conferred on Sister Mary Scholastica, renowned for her work supporting the community and seafarers at the Port of Sunderland, and businessman Paul Callaghan CBE DL FRSA for his many contributions to business, education and culture.

Born in Sunderland in 1994, Joshua Kelly has risen through the ranks of international boxing to become the first world boxing champion in the city's history, securing the IBF Super‑Welterweight World Title in January 2026.

Joshua's journey began at the Houghton and District Amateur Boxing Club, where he became the England Boxing Elite Champion in 2013. After earning a place on the Team GB Olympic squad and competing at the Rio 2016 Olympics, he launched a successful professional career in 2017, capturing multiple titles including:

• British Light‑Middleweight Title
• Commonwealth Welterweight Title
• WBA International Welterweight Title

Known for his technical skill, discipline and distinctive fighting style, Joshua has achieved national acclaim and enjoyed a strong winning record, including a notable seven‑fight streak that cemented his place among Britain's elite fighters.