The fighter Cameron gives up WBC title in protest against rules for women boxers
Chantelle Cameron chose to relinquish her WBC super-lightweight title on recently as a symbolic gesture against existing rules in female boxing, demanding the option to fight in three-minute rounds like male counterparts.
Stand against disparity
The boxer’s move to relinquish her championship belt stems from her firm stance with the WBC’s rule that female fighters fight in shorter rounds, which the veteran boxer views as gender disparity.
“The sport for women has come a long way, but there’s still room for improvement,” the boxer declared. “I firmly believe in fairness and that includes the choice to have identical rules, the same chances, and equal respect.”
Background of the championship
The British boxer was elevated to WBC super-lightweight world champion when the previous title holder was designated “temporary champion” as she took a break from professional fighting. The World Boxing Council was preparing for a purse bid on recently for a match between Cameron and compatriot the challenger.
Prior instance
In December 2023, another female fighter likewise vacated her WBC title after the governing body would not authorize her to fight in bouts under the same rule-set as male boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.
Council’s stance
The WBC president, Sulaimán, had mentioned before that they would not sanction extended rounds in women’s boxing. “For tennis women play fewer sets, regarding basketball the rim is reduced and the ball is smaller and those are less physical sports. We support the health and protection of the boxers,” he wrote on X.
Current standard
Most women’s title fights have multiple rounds of shorter duration each, and the British boxer was part of numerous athletes – including Serrano – who initiated an effort in recently to have the right to participate under the same rules as men fighters.
Fighting history
Cameron, who holds a impressive fight record, stated clearly that her demonstration is more than personal preference, describing it as a struggle for the next wave of women fighters. “I’m proud of my achievement in becoming a WBC champion, but it’s time to take a stand for equality and for the boxing’s progression,” she continued.
Future plans
The fighter is not retiring from professional fighting entirely, however, with her promoters her team stating she intends to seek different title chances and marquee bouts while continuing to demand on competing in longer duration fights.
