FORMER undisputed light-welterweight boxing champion Josh Taylor will be given the Freedom of East Lothian this evening (Thursday).

Taylor, who grew up in Prestonpans and now lives in Haddington, became the first Briton to be undisputed champion in the four-belt era of boxing when he defeated Jose Ramirez three years ago.

The 33-year-old, who has only tasted defeat twice in his professional career, will receive the honour this evening in a civic reception.

Provost John McMillan will present the Freedom of East Lothian in recognition of Taylor’s outstanding sporting achievements in the boxing world.

Ten years ago, Taylor won gold at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Turning professional the following year, he defeated Archie Weah on his debut in Texas.

In his seventh bout, he stopped Dave Ryan to become Commonwealth light-welterweight champion and then defeated Ohara Davies at a raucous Braehead Arena to become WBC Silver light-welterweight champion.

Taylor entered the World Boxing Super Series and became world champion for the first time when he won the IBF light-welterweight title by defeating Ivan Baranchyk, before adding the WBA (Super) light-welterweight belt when he defeated Regis Prograis in the final.

Victory over Ramirez in Las Vegas saw the former Preston Lodge High School pupil bring home the WBC and WBO light-welterweight titles alongside his WBA and IBF belts.

In 2004, East Lothian Council granted the Freedom of East Lothian to the world-renowned artist John Bellany from Port Seton.

In 2009, Catriona Matthew, Women’s Open golf champion from North Berwick, received the accolade.

In 2012, The Royal Scots Borderers, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland – or 1 SCOTS – was granted the Freedom of East Lothian and in May 2019 it was also granted to Lothians and Border Yeomanry.