The fighter Cameron relinquishes WBC belt in protest against women’s boxing rules
Chantelle Cameron voluntarily gave up her prestigious boxing title on Friday as a symbolic gesture against existing rules in female boxing, demanding the option to compete in longer rounds similar to male boxers.
Protest against unequal treatment
The boxer’s move to give up her title originates from her strong opposition with the World Boxing Council’s rule that women fight in two-minute rounds, which the veteran boxer views as unequal treatment.
“Women’s boxing has made great strides, but there’s still room for improvement,” she announced. “I firmly believe in equality and that includes the choice to fight equal rounds, the same chances, and the same recognition.”
Background of the championship
The British boxer was elevated to title holder when former champion Taylor was designated “Champion in Recess” as she stepped away from the sport. The WBC was planning to hold a financial bid on recently for a fight between Cameron and other UK fighter the challenger.
Earlier case
In December 2023, fellow boxer Serrano likewise vacated her WBC title after the governing body would not authorize her to participate in bouts under the equivalent rules as male boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.
Organization’s viewpoint
The WBC president, the president, had stated previously that they would not authorize 12 three-minute rounds in women’s boxing. “In tennis women play three sets, in basketball the rim is reduced and the size is reduced and those are not contact sports. We stand by the health and protection of the athletes,” he wrote on his platform.
Current standard
Most women’s title fights have 10 rounds of shorter duration each, and Cameron was part of numerous athletes – including Serrano – who started a movement in recently to have the choice to compete under the equivalent conditions as men fighters.
Fighting history
The boxer, who holds a 21-1 professional boxing record, emphasized that her stand goes beyond individual choice, presenting it as a fight for coming generations of female boxers. “I’m proud of my success in earning a title holder, but it’s time to take a stand for justice and for the boxing’s progression,” she continued.
Coming actions
Cameron is not leaving from the sport entirely, however, with her promoters her team saying she aims to chase other championship opportunities and prestigious matches while continuing to demand on participating in longer duration fights.
