Chantelle Cameron relinquishes World Boxing Council championship in stand against rules for women boxers

The super-lightweight champion decided to vacate her WBC super-lightweight title on recently as an act of defiance against current regulations in the sport for women, insisting on the option to fight in three-minute rounds similar to men fighters.

Demonstration against disparity

The boxer’s move to vacate her championship belt stems from her strong opposition with the boxing governing body’s rule that female fighters participate in shorter rounds, which the experienced fighter regards as gender disparity.

“Women’s boxing has advanced significantly, but there’s still progress to be made,” she announced. “I firmly believe in equal treatment and that includes the choice to compete under equal conditions, equal opportunities, and identical regard.”

History of the championship

Cameron was elevated to world championship status when former champion Taylor was categorized “inactive champion” as she took a break from boxing. The World Boxing Council was set to have a purse bid on recently for a bout between the champion and other UK fighter her potential opponent.

Previous precedent

In the end of last year, fellow boxer Serrano likewise vacated her belt after the council refused to allow her to fight in bouts under the identical regulations as fighters’ boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.

Council’s stance

The organization’s leader, Sulaimán, had mentioned earlier in 2023 that they would not sanction 12 three-minute rounds in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis female players compete fewer sets, for basketball the hoop is lower and the size is reduced and those are not contact sports. We stand by the safety and wellbeing of the fighters,” he stated on social media.

Current standard

Most women’s title fights have 10 rounds of shorter duration each, and the British boxer was one of numerous athletes – like Serrano – who launched a campaign in 2023 to have the choice to compete under the identical regulations as men.

Professional record

The boxer, who boasts a strong career statistics, made clear that her stand is more than individual choice, framing it as a battle for coming generations of female athletes. “I’m proud of my accomplishment in earning a WBC champion, but it’s right to protest for equality and for the boxing’s progression,” she continued.

Future plans

Cameron is not leaving from the sport entirely, however, with her representatives her promotion company saying she intends to seek other championship opportunities and marquee bouts while maintaining her insistence on participating in three-minute rounds.