Photo: Carl Stevens / WBZ News Radio
LYNN, Mass. (WBZNewsRadio) — Lynn City Hall was filled with applause Tuesday night as a local champion received honors.
City Councilor Fred Hogan presented Boxer Rashida Ellis with a special plaque recognizing her her 2022 IBA World Lightweight Championship.
“Tonight we are here for a very special moment in Lynn history," said Councilor Hogan. "I’ve recognized city champions, we’ve recognized state champions, but tonight, we are recognizing a World Champion from Lynn, Massachusetts.”
Ellis won the championship in Istanbul last month, defeating Brazil's Beatriz Ferreira, who medaled silver in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Ellis, who was on the 2020 U.S. Olympic team, received a citation from the state legislature and a street sign from Mayor Jared Nicholson that reads: "City Of Lynn: Home of Rashida Ellis, World Champion Boxer." The road sign will be placed on Western Avenue near the corner of Victory Road.
“We're [going to hold] another parade when she wins the Olympic gold medal—and that is gonna happen,” Councilor Hogan said.
Ellis expects to enter the 2024 Olympics as part of Team U.S.A.
"This is only the beginning for me so, stay tuned," Ellis said to cheers.
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