Former world boxing champion Tony Bellew has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Edge Hill in recognition of his achievements in sport and his work raising awareness of mental health issues.

The Liverpool-born boxer received the honour for his services to sport and mental health advocacy, with the Ormskirk university praising the impact he has made both inside and outside the ring over the past two decades.

Since retiring from boxing, Bellew has become a prominent advocate for mental health awareness (Image: Edge Hill University)

Bellew enjoyed an 11-year professional boxing career, winning the WBC cruiserweight world title in 2016 before retiring with a record of 30 victories, including 20 knockouts, and just three defeats.

Before turning professional, he was a three-time ABA heavyweight champion and represented Great Britain as an amateur.

The 42-year-old has also found success beyond boxing, appearing as Ricky Conlan in the films Creed and Creed III, and working as a commentator and pundit for broadcasters including DAZN and TalkSPORT.

Accepting the award, Bellew said: "I'm incredibly honoured to receive this recognition from Edge Hill University.

"Chasing your dreams through hard work and faith in yourself is a value I share with Edge Hill so to be acknowledged in this way means a great deal.

Bellew enjoyed an 11-year professional boxing career, winning the WBC cruiserweight world title in 2016

(Image: Edge Hill University)

"I'm proud to be standing alongside these inspiring graduates and I hope in turn they see me as proof that anything is possible with dedication and belief."

Since retiring from boxing, Bellew has become a prominent advocate for mental health awareness.

He has spoken openly about his own struggles and has supported a number of campaigns and charities, including DrinkIQ, Men's Sheds and Soccer Aid for UNICEF.

Professor Jay Cullen, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences at Edge Hill University, said Bellew's achievements made him an ideal role model for graduating students.

He said: "Tony Bellew's journey, pursuing his dream to become a world champion boxer and then becoming a champion of mental health awareness, is exactly the kind of achievement we hope will inspire our students graduating this week.

"By awarding Tony an honorary doctorate, we recognise his outstanding contribution to boxing and his commitment to breaking down stigma around men's mental health.

"He is a truly deserving recipient and an inspiring role model for our students and wider community."

Edge Hill University, based in Ormskirk, presents honorary awards to individuals who have made exceptional contributions in their field and whose achievements reflect the institution's values.