Josh Taylor left Las Vegas last month “the happiest man alive” having sealed his place in British sporting history forever, but the enchanting celebration from his East Lothian fans this afternoon in Prestonpans made his victory even sweeter.
The Tartan Tornado celebrated in style today (June 27) with an open-top bus tour around his hometown and said he was overwhelmed by the support from community.
Fans travelled far and wide to Prestonpans to catch a glimpse of the boxer aboard an open-top white double decker bus, supplied by Lothian Buses.
Taylor was joined by his fiancée Danielle, mum Diane, sister Finch, coach Terry and other family members for the celebration.
The 30-year-old was full of nerves before boarding the bus earlier today and referred to the dedication of Prestonpans Gala Day Committee for securing the bus for his parade.
He said: "Standing on top of my own bus, I never thought that would happen, maybe if I was in the gala or something.
"It's been a month since I have been home, but I have been doing press, doing gigs and interviews so I haven't had time to sit down and think about what has happened.
"I'm just riding the wave and it's been really cool."
He added: “I didn’t think I would get an open top bus - it’s nice but I am nervous, I don’t know what’s going to happen.
“I always get great support; I have always had brilliant support my whole career from the town, so it has been amazing.”
The boxing champion set off from Prestonpans Community Centre at noon to hundreds of waiting fans, who were more than happy to line the streets for their champion.
Large crowds of excited children, boxing glove-wearing babies and saltire-clutching fans turned up with plenty time to spare to soak in the sunshine, knowing that their hero would be driving past to share his long-awaited victory with them all.
Taylor waved two of his newly won world championship belts as the bus drove through Preston Road, Schaw Road, Appin Drive, High Street, Redburn Road, South Grange Avenue and West Loan.
Chants of “Josh Taylor” accompanied pipers from the Preston Lodge High School pipe band.
People gathered outside beloved town landmarks, including The Prestoungrange Gothenburg pub, in preparation for the moment.
Josh paused outside the pub to blow kisses to his supporters and took a moment to soak in the adoration from his fans - giving the town a well deserved patriotic boost.
Residents hung from their windows to wave Josh and his family onwards, with several ensuring the Scottish flag was flying proudly from their buildings.
Staff from Scotmid, The Dasher, B&M, Greggs, The Railway Tavern, Day Today Express and Bayne’s also stepped outside their premises for a moment to join in with the celebration.
The streets were alive with cheers, "500 Miles" renditions and claps from proud and dedicated locals - with one resident saying: "He deserves to be celebrated like this, it's great for the community after everything we have all been through with Covid, and it is brilliant for Josh."
A new generation has been inspired by the boxing star and judging by the number of youngsters dressed in boxing gear, it won't be long until East Lothian has another champion in its midst.
Asked about his favourite moment since his win in America, Josh said: "This would be the favourite.
"This has been the best time of my life."
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