Chantelle Cameron relinquishes World Boxing Council title in protest against women’s boxing rules
The super-lightweight champion chose to relinquish her prestigious boxing title on Friday as a form of protest against the status quo in women’s boxing, calling for the right to battle in extended rounds similar to men fighters.
Stand against inequality
The boxer’s move to give up her championship belt comes from her firm stance with the WBC’s mandate that women boxers fight in shorter rounds, which the 34-year-old views as unfair standards.
“Women’s boxing has made great strides, but there’s still progress to be made,” she announced. “I firmly believe in fairness and that includes the option to fight equal rounds, equal opportunities, and equal respect.”
Context of the title
Cameron was promoted to title holder when former champion Taylor was designated “temporary champion” as she stepped away from boxing. The boxing organization was set to have a financial bid on Friday for a fight between Cameron and fellow British boxer Sandy Ryan.
Earlier case
In late 2023, Amanda Serrano likewise vacated her belt after the council declined to permit her to compete in matches under the identical regulations as male boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.
Council’s stance
The council head, Mauricio Sulaimán, had mentioned before that they would not authorize longer fights in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis female players compete three sets, in basketball the rim is reduced and the size is reduced and those are less physical sports. We support the safety and wellbeing of the athletes,” he stated on social media.
Current standard
Most women’s title fights have multiple rounds of shorter duration each, and the fighter was one of more than two dozen boxers – like Serrano – who started a movement in last year to have the choice to fight under the equivalent conditions as men fighters.
Fighting history
Cameron, who boasts a strong career statistics, emphasized that her protest extends beyond individual choice, describing it as a struggle for future generations of female athletes. “I feel proud of my success in attaining a world champion, but it’s moment to make a statement for what’s right and for the boxing’s progression,” she added.
Future plans
Cameron is not retiring from professional fighting entirely, however, with her promoters her team stating she plans to pursue different title chances and marquee bouts while continuing to demand on fighting in three-minute rounds.
