In what promises to be a knockout evening in more ways than one, three iconic figures in British boxing—Ricky Hatton, Michael Watson, and Barry Hearn—are gearing up to receive one of London’s most prestigious civic honours.
This October, the trio will be awarded the Freedom of the City of London, marking a moment of celebration not just for them, but for the sport as a whole.
A Night of Glamour, Boxing, and Respect at Guildhall
The ceremony will take place on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, inside the grand setting of London’s historic Guildhall.
It’s all happening during a black-tie charity event titled City Fight Night, which is set to combine glamour and grit in the most memorable way.
The night will raise money for important causes while also honouring some of boxing’s biggest contributors.
Joining the trio for the festivities will be The Lord Mayor of London, Alderman Alastair King DL, who is also playing an active role in the night—more on that in a moment.
Hatton, Hearn, and Watson Set to Receive Historic Recognition
The Freedom of the City is one of London’s oldest traditions, dating back to the 13th century, and being included on that exclusive list is no small feat.
Each of the honourees has left a lasting legacy on British boxing:
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Ricky Hatton, former world champion and fan favourite, couldn’t hide his joy, saying:
“I’m absolutely chuffed to bits… it’s a real honour and something I never imagined happening to me. It’ll be a great night for a great cause.” -
Barry Hearn, founder of Matchroom and one of the biggest names in boxing promotion, called the moment a “privilege” and promised the event “will be a knockout in every sense.”
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And Michael Watson, whose inspirational comeback from a life-altering injury has earned him national admiration, will also be recognised for his incredible courage and contribution to the sport.
London vs. New York in the Ring
But it’s not all awards and speeches—there’s going to be action in the ring too.
Six white-collar boxing matches are scheduled, featuring members of the London Fire Brigade facing off against their counterparts from the New York City Fire Department.
The teams will be trained by the iconic amateur boxing club, Fitzroy Lodge.
It’s friendly competition with a cause, bringing together two cities through a shared love of boxing—and a little bit of pride on the line.
Lord Mayor Gears Up for His Own Exhibition Fight
In an unexpected twist, The Lord Mayor himself will also throw on some gloves.
That’s right—Alderman Alastair King DL is stepping into the ring for an exhibition match against a mystery opponent from New York.
Clearly excited about it, he joked:
“Boxing is one of my passions… and this will actually be the first time a Lord Mayor of London has taken part in active combat since the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381!”
Supporting Young People and Firefighters Through Boxing
The event, hosted by actor and presenter Terry Stone, is being organised in collaboration with The Lord Mayor’s Appeal and is sponsored by Bloomberg.
More than just a celebration, the night is focused on giving back.
Proceeds will go toward charities that use boxing to help steer young people away from crime, as well as organisations dedicated to supporting the mental and physical health of UK firefighters.
A Powerful Tribute to Boxing’s Legacy and Future
By the end of the evening, Hatton, Watson and Hearn will join a list of names that stretches back centuries—an honour that places them not just in boxing history, but London’s civic story as well.
And with boxing, charity, and even some mayoral punches in the mix, City Fight Night is shaping up to be one of the most unforgettable events of the year.