MONTEGO BAY, St James — Montego Bay-born Nicholas ‘Axeman’ Walters, who recently soared to international stardom after winning the World Boxing Association (WBA) Featherweight title, will be given the keys to the city of Montego Bay next week Thursday at a special Civic Ceremony commencing at 3:00 pm in the historic Sam Sharpe Square, Montego Bay.

Plans to celebrate the boxer’s success were discussed at a courtesy call paid on Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Glendon Harris by Walters and his father, former professional boxer, Job Walters, last Wednesday, at the St James Parish Council.

Prior to the civic ceremony, which will see the 26-year- old WBA champion being honoured with the keys to the city of Montego Bay, Walters will participate in a motorcade commencing at Kensignton, St James, and touring communities such as Springfield, Mafoota, Roehampton — the boxer’s home community — and Anchovy, before heading into Sam Sharpe Square.

Mayor Harris believes the decision to honour Walters with the keys to the city is a quite fitting, as “Walters is originally from the parish, and has done remarkably well in highlighting the idea that great rewards can be gained when people aspire to accomplish great tasks”.

“I see Nicholas Walters as another excellent addition to the network of young, positive role models that Jamaica possesses… many are inspired by youths like Nicholas — young Jamaicans — who have, through their actions, illustrated that desires can become a reality, once backed up by hard work and dedication,” said Mayor Harris.

Walters, born January 4, 1986, attended the Roehampton Primary and Anchovy High Schools in St James. He currently has a 22 wins, zero losses, with 18 knock-outs.

World 100-metre champion Yohan Blake, as well as Dexter Lee, were the last individuals recognised by the St James Parish Council for their accomplishments in sports, and honoured with keys to the city of Montego Bay.