Black sports trailblazer Billy Boston, 90, becomes rugby league’s first knight

Written by on June 12, 2025

Billy Boston, who blazed a trail for Black sportspeople in Britain during the 1950s and '60s, became the first rugby league player to receive a knighthood in a special ceremony at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday.

The 90-year-old Boston was given his knighthood at an investiture ahead of the official announcement of King Charles' birthday honors this week. It was brought forward amid concerns for Boston's health, Britain's Press Association reported.

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Born in the Welsh capital Cardiff, Boston is one of the greatest players in the history of rugby . . .



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