John Doherty, 63, a three-time British super featherweight champion between 1986 and 1992, was recognised last weekend in Hastings for his outstanding contributions to boxing.

The ceremony, held on Sunday at the Bannatyne Hotel, continues to grow stronger each year. Now in its tenth year, it is fast becoming one of the UK’s most prestigious boxing events, with all 300 tickets selling out rapidly.

Doherty, who boasted an impressive career record of 28 wins, 8 losses, and 3 draws over ten years from 1982 to 1992, was inducted into the Hall of Fame under the ‘modern era’ category.

In doing so, he joined his good friend and former coach, John Celebanski – a 2023 inductee – in the Hall of Fame.

And Celebanski made the long journey down south to celebrate the occasion with him.

Speaking to the T&A about his achievement, Doherty admitted that receiving the award came as a pleasant surprise.

He said: “When you get there and you’re amongst it all, then you realise it’s quite an honour to have been inducted into it (Hall of Fame).

“I’m not one for getting up on stage and talking; I’d much rather get in the ring, but I was proud to be invited to the stage to collect my award along with John (Celebanski).

“It felt special to be in the presence of big names such as Joe Calzaghe (who was also inducted into the British Boxing Hall of Fame on Sunday).

“I didn’t expect to be honoured in this way, but I have now, and I feel proud to have done so.

“I suppose, everyone who has been inducted into the Hall of Fame has played their part in boxing, whatever way you look at it.”

John Doherty is handed his certificate of achievement.(Image: Supplied)

Reflecting on the highlight of his career – a period that saw him reclaim the British title three times – Doherty was taken back to a memorable night in Newport in September 1982.

“Without a shadow of a doubt, the one that stands out for me is my fight with Floyd Havard,” said Doherty.

“Floyd was rated number one and two in three big divisions (IBF and WBC). He’d also beaten Pad Cowdell, who had beaten me previously in a British title bout, so I wasn’t expected to win.

“So, to go to Newport, Wales and claim an 11th round stoppage for the British title was an amazing feeling.

“It’s one I’ll look back on forever.”

Doherty first walked into his good friend Celebanski’s gym as an 18-year-old, determined to make his mark in boxing – and he did, with his coach by his side every step of the way.

Fast forward to today, with both men now inducted into the British Boxing Hall of Fame, the pair can look back with pride on a truly successful partnership.

Speaking to the T&A, Celebankski said of his friend’s achievement: “It’s an incredibly proud moment for John, but for me too because I have so much respect for him.

“He’s one of the nicest guys you’ll meet, as are his family, and they deserve this recognition.

“He worked tirelessly as a fighter, come summer or winter, and he deserved every bit of success he got throughout his career.”