British boxer Cameron gives up WBC title in protest against women’s boxing rules
Chantelle Cameron decided to vacate her WBC super-lightweight title on recently as a symbolic gesture against current regulations in the sport for women, demanding the option to compete in extended rounds matching men fighters.
Demonstration against inequality
Her choice to vacate her world title stems from her strong opposition with the WBC’s rule that women compete in two-minute rounds, which the 34-year-old considers gender disparity.
“The sport for women has advanced significantly, but there’s still work to be done,” Cameron stated. “I firmly believe in fairness and that includes the option to compete under equal conditions, equal opportunities, and the same recognition.”
Background of the title
The British boxer was promoted to title holder when the previous title holder was named “temporary champion” as she paused from boxing. The World Boxing Council was preparing for a purse bid on that day for a fight between Cameron and other UK fighter her potential opponent.
Previous precedent
In the end of last year, another female fighter similarly gave up her WBC title after the organization refused to allow her to participate in bouts under the equivalent rules as fighters’ boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.
Council’s stance
The council head, the president, had declared earlier in 2023 that they would not approve longer fights in female matches. “In tennis female players compete fewer sets, for basketball the rim is reduced and the ball smaller and those are not contact sports. We support the welfare of the boxers,” he wrote on X.
Current standard
The majority of female championship bouts have ten rounds of reduced time each, and the fighter was part of over twenty fighters – including Serrano – who started a movement in last year to have the option to fight under the equivalent conditions as men fighters.
Fighting history
The athlete, who boasts a impressive fight record, emphasized that her protest extends beyond her own wishes, describing it as a struggle for future generations of women fighters. “I feel proud of my success in earning a title holder, but it’s time to take a stand for what’s right and for the boxing’s progression,” she concluded.
Next steps
Cameron is not leaving from professional fighting completely, however, with her representatives her promotion company saying she aims to chase different title chances and prestigious matches while persisting in her requirement on competing in extended rounds.
