Chantelle Cameron gives up World Boxing Council title in stand against rules for women boxers
Chantelle Cameron voluntarily gave up her WBC super-lightweight title on Friday as a symbolic gesture against current regulations in female boxing, demanding the right to battle in three-minute rounds matching male boxers.
Stand against inequality
Cameron’s decision to vacate her championship belt originates from her strong opposition with the WBC’s requirement that female fighters participate in shorter rounds, which the veteran boxer regards as unfair standards.
“The sport for women has made great strides, but there’s still progress to be made,” Cameron stated. “I’ve always believed in equal treatment and that includes the choice to fight equal rounds, the same chances, and the same recognition.”
Context of the belt
Cameron was promoted to title holder when former champion Taylor was categorized “Champion in Recess” as she stepped away from professional fighting. The WBC was planning to hold a contract bid on Friday for a match between Cameron and fellow British boxer the challenger.
Earlier case
In the end of last year, another female fighter similarly gave up her championship after the organization refused to allow her to fight in matches under the equivalent rules as fighters’ boxing, with longer duration fights.
WBC’s position
The council head, Mauricio Sulaimán, had declared previously that they would not authorize extended rounds in women’s bouts. “For tennis female players compete fewer sets, regarding basketball the rim is reduced and the ball smaller and those are not contact sports. We prioritize the health and protection of the fighters,” he stated on social media.
Existing norm
The majority of female championship bouts have ten rounds of shorter duration each, and Cameron was one of numerous athletes – such as Serrano – who launched a campaign in 2023 to have the choice to participate under the identical regulations as men.
Fighting history
Cameron, who holds a impressive fight record, stated clearly that her demonstration extends beyond her own wishes, describing it as a fight for coming generations of women fighters. “It’s an honor of my achievement in attaining a WBC champion, but it’s time to take a stand for justice and for the future of the sport,” she continued.
Future plans
The fighter is not stepping away from the sport altogether, however, with her representatives MVP stating she aims to chase other championship opportunities and high-profile fights while persisting in her requirement on participating in longer duration fights.
