Rest in Peace: Rugby World Mourns the Loss of Billy Boston, Legendary Wigan and Great Britain Star, Dead at 90
The rugby league community is in mourning following the passing of one of its most iconic figures, Billy Boston, who died at the age of 90 after a brief illness. A trailblazer both on and off the field, Boston’s remarkable career and enduring legacy have left an indelible mark on the sport.
A Prolific Career
Born William John Boston on August 6, 1934, in Butetown, Cardiff, Wales, Boston began his rugby journey in union before making a significant switch to league. In 1953, he signed with Wigan for £3,000, a decision that would see him become one of the game’s greatest try-scorers. Over 15 seasons with Wigan, Boston scored an astonishing 478 tries in 487 appearances, a record that still stands today. His total of 571 tries across all competitions places him second in rugby league history.
Boston’s international career was equally impressive. He represented Great Britain in 31 Test matches, scoring 24 tries, and was a key member of the team that won the 1960 Rugby League World Cup.
Breaking Barriers
As one of the first black players to achieve superstar status in rugby league, Boston faced and overcame significant racial barriers. His success paved the way for future generations of black athletes in the sport. In recognition of his contributions, he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1986.
Despite his achievements, calls for a knighthood have gone unanswered. In March 2025, MPs, including Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle, advocated for Boston to receive a knighthood, highlighting the lack of such honors for rugby league players.
Honoring a Legend
Boston’s legacy has been commemorated through various honors. Statues of him stand in Wigan and at Wembley Stadium, and in July 2023, a statue featuring Boston alongside fellow Welsh rugby legends Clive Sullivan and Gus Risman was unveiled in Cardiff Bay. This statue is notable for being the first in Wales to depict named, non-fictionalized black men.
He has been inducted into multiple halls of fame, including the British Rugby League Hall of Fame, the Welsh Sports Hall of Fame, and the Wigan Warriors Hall of Fame.
A Life Beyond the Field
After retiring from professional play in 1970, Boston remained a prominent figure in the Wigan community. He ran the Griffin Hotel pub near Central Park and continued to support and promote rugby league. In 2016, he publicly revealed his battle with vascular dementia, bringing attention to the health challenges faced by former athletes.
The news of Boston’s passing has elicited an outpouring of tributes from across the rugby world. Wigan Warriors released a statement honoring his contributions: “Billy Boston was not just a rugby league legend; he was a pioneer who broke barriers and set records that may never be surpassed.”
Fans and former players have taken to social media to share their memories and condolences, celebrating Boston’s remarkable career and the impact he had on the sport.
A Lasting Legacy
Billy Boston’s influence on rugby league is immeasurable. His exceptional talent, resilience in the face of adversity, and commitment to the sport have inspired countless individuals. As the rugby community mourns his loss, it also celebrates the life of a man whose legacy will endure for generations to come.
Rest in peace, Billy Boston.
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