The fighter Cameron vacates World Boxing Council title in protest against women’s boxing rules
Chantelle Cameron decided to vacate her WBC super-lightweight title on this week as a symbolic gesture against current regulations in female boxing, demanding the opportunity to fight in longer rounds matching men fighters.
Demonstration against unequal treatment
Her choice to relinquish her championship belt comes from her firm stance with the WBC’s requirement that women boxers compete in reduced rounds, which the experienced fighter considers unequal treatment.
“Female boxing has advanced significantly, but there’s still work to be done,” she announced. “I firmly believe in equality and that includes the right to compete under equal conditions, equal opportunities, and the same recognition.”
History of the belt
The fighter was upgraded to title holder when the previous title holder was designated “temporary champion” as she took a break from professional fighting. The WBC was planning to hold a financial bid on Friday for a match between Cameron and fellow British boxer her potential opponent.
Earlier case
In the end of last year, Amanda Serrano also relinquished her belt after the council declined to permit her to participate in matches under the identical regulations as male boxing, with longer duration fights.
Council’s stance
The organization’s leader, Mauricio Sulaimán, had mentioned previously that they would not sanction extended rounds in female matches. “For tennis female players compete 3 sets, regarding basketball the rim is reduced and the ball is smaller and those are less physical sports. We prioritize the welfare of the fighters,” he wrote on social media.
Present practice
Typically women’s championship matches have 10 rounds of shorter duration each, and Cameron was one of over twenty fighters – like Serrano – who started a movement in recently to have the option to fight under the same rules as male boxers.
Fighting history
Cameron, who maintains a 21-1 professional boxing record, made clear that her stand is more than her own wishes, framing it as a battle for future generations of female athletes. “I’m proud of my accomplishment in attaining a world champion, but it’s right to protest for what’s right and for the boxing’s progression,” she concluded.
Future plans
The fighter is not leaving from the sport completely, however, with her representatives MVP indicating she aims to chase different title chances and marquee bouts while maintaining her insistence on participating in three-minute rounds.
