Josh Taylor's old school 'proud as punch' at title win

Teachers and pupils at undisputed boxing champion Josh Taylor’s old school are ‘proud as punch’ after his historic win at the weekend.

Locals in his hometown of Prestonpans , East Lothian, have also been congratulating the undefeated fighter following the victory over Jose Ramirez in Las Vegas.

The unanimous points decision meant the 30-year-old became the UK’s first unified world champion of the four-belt era and only the fifth man to hold all four belts at light welterweight level.

Speaking on Monday, Gavin Clark, who is headmaster at Preston Lodge, said: “We are incredibly proud of Josh. He has been an incredible supporter of the school, and it such a special moment for the whole community.

“Everyone was really excited at the weekend. I’m not sure how many stayed up for it, I guess that was up to the individuals, but there was a lot of chat about it and Josh made the front page of our newsletter on Friday such was the building excitement.”

Mr Clark is now hoping the world champion will bring all of his belts into the school as soon as restrictions allow visitors.

He said: “Everyone is really pleased.

“I have already emailed him saying he would need to come back with the belts and share them with us, once we are allowed visitors of course, but we really hope we will be able to catch up with Josh.

“A lot of staff and pupils here know him quite well so we are really looking forward to that if it is possible.”

Saturday night’s victory, that was scored 114-112 by all three judges, meant Taylor continues his 18-0 professional record.

Thirteen of those wins have been by knockout.