LIVERPOOL.- In preparation for the opening of the new Museum of Liverpool in 2011, curators are continuing to make exciting additions to the galleries, devoted to telling the story of the city and its global significance through its geography, history and culture.

The latest objects to go into the Creative City gallery of the museum, was presented on loan to curators by their owner, former World Champion boxer, Liverpool’s John Conteh.

Conteh, who won Middleweight Gold at the British Commonwealth Games in 1970 and went on to win WBC Light Heavyweight crown and successfully defend the title three times, has kindly agreed to the loan of several priceless additions to the Creative City gallery, achieved at the pinnacles of his career.

Born 27 May 1951, Conteh started boxing aged 11 at Kirkby Amateur Boxing Club, going on to become one of Britain’s most successful boxing champions, retiring in 1980 after 39 Pro fights, 34 wins, one draw and a mere four losses.

Paul Gallagher, curator of contemporary collecting at National Museums Liverpool said: “Boxing has played an important part in Liverpool’s fabulous sporting heritage, and the Creative City gallery will feature a sporting section with a special exhibition focused on telling the story of the sport. Boxing Clever will display - amongst other objects – John Conteh’s WBC title belt, and the boxing gloves and boots he wore during the successful challenge of the title in October 1974.

"It’s a real coup to be able to include these objects in the display. The city has produced a wealth of champion fighters through the years but John Conteh’s achievements make him a true Liverpool great and arguably the city’s finest. It’s a privilege to be able to recognise his achievements in the Museum of Liverpool using objects that were integral to his personal story.”

Conteh successfully defended his WBC title three times, the final time in front of his home crowd at the legendary Liverpool Stadium on 5 March 1977. He is also loaning the Museum of Liverpool the striking red gown worn for this successful defence and the Lonsdale Trophy which was awarded to him following this win.

The Creative City gallery will be one of the first to open in the new Museum of Liverpool, celebrating the creative personality of Liverpool and uncovering why the city has produced such an amazing roll call of writers, poets, performers, musicians, visual artists, comedians and sports people.

Among the many displays, visitors will be able to step back in time and immerse themselves in The Beatles phenomenon and the passion of Merseyside’s famous football clubs. Key exhibits in the gallery will include some unique Beatles objects, including the original stage on which John Lennon’s band the Quarrymen played in 1957.

The football and sport section will include a special immersive film experience capturing the excitement, passion and intensity of football in Merseyside through fans’ eyes.