Chantelle Cameron gives up WBC title in stand against female boxing regulations
The super-lightweight champion chose to relinquish her WBC super-lightweight title on Friday as a form of protest against existing rules in the sport for women, calling for the opportunity to battle in three-minute rounds matching male counterparts.
Stand against disparity
The boxer’s move to relinquish her world title comes from her strong opposition with the WBC’s rule that women compete in shorter rounds, which the 34-year-old considers unfair standards.
“Women’s boxing has come a long way, but there’s still room for improvement,” the boxer declared. “My conviction has always been in equality and that includes the choice to fight equal rounds, the same chances, and equal respect.”
Background of the title
Cameron was promoted to WBC super-lightweight world champion when former champion Taylor was categorized “Champion in Recess” as she paused from boxing. The boxing organization was planning to hold a purse bid on recently for a fight between Cameron and compatriot her potential opponent.
Earlier case
In December 2023, Amanda Serrano also relinquished her championship after the governing body would not authorize her to participate in fights under the identical regulations as fighters’ boxing, with longer duration fights.
Council’s stance
The council head, the president, had declared before that they would not authorize extended rounds in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis female players compete three sets, in basketball the hoop is lower and the ball is smaller and those are not contact sports. We stand by the health and protection of the fighters,” he stated on X.
Present practice
The majority of female championship bouts have ten rounds of reduced time each, and the fighter was part of numerous athletes – such as Serrano – who launched a campaign in 2023 to have the right to fight under the same rules as men fighters.
Fighting history
Cameron, who boasts a 21-1 professional boxing record, stated clearly that her protest goes beyond personal preference, describing it as a struggle for future generations of female boxers. “It’s an honor of my achievement in attaining a title holder, but it’s moment to make a statement for equality and for the future of the sport,” she concluded.
Future plans
Cameron is not stepping away from boxing altogether, however, with her promoters MVP indicating she aims to chase other championship opportunities and high-profile fights while continuing to demand on participating in longer duration fights.
