Chantelle Cameron gives up WBC championship in protest against women’s boxing rules
The super-lightweight champion decided to vacate her world championship belt on this week as a symbolic gesture against current regulations in women’s boxing, demanding the opportunity to compete in extended rounds similar to male boxers.
Demonstration against unequal treatment
The boxer’s move to vacate her title stems from her clear disagreement with the boxing governing body’s mandate that women boxers fight in shorter rounds, which the 34-year-old views as unfair standards.
“Female boxing has come a long way, but there’s still room for improvement,” the boxer declared. “I’ve always believed in equal treatment and that includes the right to fight equal rounds, equal opportunities, and the same recognition.”
Context of the title
The fighter was promoted to WBC super-lightweight world champion when Katie Taylor was categorized “Champion in Recess” as she stepped away from the sport. The WBC was planning to hold a financial bid on recently for a match between Cameron and fellow British boxer Sandy Ryan.
Earlier case
In December 2023, fellow boxer Serrano also relinquished her belt after the council would not authorize her to compete in fights under the identical regulations as male boxing, with longer duration fights.
WBC’s position
The organization’s leader, Mauricio Sulaimán, had stated previously that they would not sanction 12 three-minute rounds in women’s boxing. “In tennis female players compete three sets, for basketball the basket is shorter and the ball smaller and those are non-contact activities. We prioritize the welfare of the fighters,” he wrote on X.
Current standard
The majority of female championship bouts have 10 rounds of reduced time each, and the British boxer was one of more than two dozen boxers – such as Serrano – who initiated an effort in recently to have the option to compete under the same rules as men.
Career statistics
The athlete, who maintains a impressive fight record, made clear that her demonstration extends beyond personal preference, presenting it as a fight for future generations of female athletes. “I feel proud of my achievement in becoming a world champion, but it’s time to take a stand for justice and for the boxing’s progression,” she continued.
Next steps
The athlete is not stepping away from professional fighting completely, however, with her management team MVP stating she intends to seek different title chances and high-profile fights while maintaining her insistence on participating in extended rounds.