British boxer Cameron gives up WBC championship in demonstration against female boxing regulations
Chantelle Cameron chose to relinquish her world championship belt on Friday as a form of protest against current regulations in female boxing, demanding the right to fight in three-minute rounds matching male counterparts.
Stand against inequality
Cameron’s decision to vacate her title comes from her clear disagreement with the boxing governing body’s requirement that female fighters participate in reduced rounds, which the veteran boxer views as unequal treatment.
“Female boxing has made great strides, but there’s still work to be done,” she announced. “I’ve always believed in equality and that includes the option to have identical rules, the same chances, and the same recognition.”
History of the championship
The fighter was promoted to title holder when former champion Taylor was categorized “Champion in Recess” as she stepped away from the sport. The World Boxing Council was set to have a contract bid on recently for a fight between the champion and fellow British boxer Sandy Ryan.
Earlier case
In December 2023, fellow boxer Serrano also relinquished her WBC title after the council declined to permit her to compete in fights under the same rule-set as male boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.
Council’s stance
The organization’s leader, Sulaimán, had stated before that they would not sanction 12 three-minute rounds in women’s boxing. “Regarding tennis women play fewer sets, regarding basketball the basket is shorter and the ball is smaller and those are non-contact activities. We prioritize the health and protection of the athletes,” he stated on his platform.
Present practice
The majority of female championship bouts have multiple rounds of two minutes each each, and Cameron was one of numerous athletes – such as Serrano – who launched a campaign in 2023 to have the option to fight under the identical regulations as male boxers.
Professional record
Cameron, who holds a impressive fight record, made clear that her protest goes beyond individual choice, describing it as a struggle for the next wave of women fighters. “It’s an honor of my success in earning a title holder, but it’s right to protest for equality and for the future of the sport,” she concluded.
Future plans
The fighter is not retiring from boxing entirely, however, with her representatives her promotion company saying she intends to seek other championship opportunities and high-profile fights while persisting in her requirement on fighting in three-minute rounds.
