Legendary boxing coach Joe Gallagher is set to receive a British Citizen Award Medal of Honour at the Palace of Westminster later this month, recognising his outstanding contribution to sport and the community.
Gallagher, who has trained world champions like Anthony Crolla, Callum Smith and Natasha Jonas, will be honoured for decades of service to British boxing, both at the elite level and on the grassroots scene.
The award comes at a deeply personal time for the Manchester-based trainer, who recently revealed he is battling stage-four bowel and liver cancer. Despite undergoing treatment, he’s continued to coach, mentor young fighters and support local initiatives.
Gallagher said the honour means a great deal: “This isn’t just about boxing. It’s about the people and communities sport brings together. I’m proud to represent Manchester and everything we’ve built here.”
Alongside his work in the ring, Gallagher has long been involved in youth development through the Joe Gallagher Academy and local amateur clubs, using boxing to give young people structure, confidence and opportunity.
The Medal of Honour will be awarded at Westminster on Thursday, 24 July. Just a handful of people across the UK receive the medal each year, with recipients also given the right to use the post-nominals BCAh.
A spokesperson for the British Citizen Award said: “Joe’s story is remarkable. His influence goes beyond sport. He’s made a lasting impact on lives, especially at a time when he’s facing his own battle with courage and dignity.”
As he prepares to receive one of the highest civilian honours in the country, Joe Gallagher stands not just as a coach, but as a fighter in every sense. A fighter for his health. A fighter for his community. And a fighter for the next generation.
Manchester’s in his corner – and always will be.
