British boxer Cameron relinquishes WBC belt in protest against rules for women boxers
Chantelle Cameron decided to vacate her WBC super-lightweight title on this week as an act of defiance against the status quo in female boxing, insisting on the option to fight in longer rounds like male counterparts.
Protest against unequal treatment
Cameron’s decision to relinquish her championship belt originates from her clear disagreement with the boxing governing body’s rule that female fighters fight in shorter rounds, which the 34-year-old views as unequal treatment.
“Female boxing has come a long way, but there’s still room for improvement,” the boxer declared. “My conviction has always been in fairness and that includes the right to compete under equal conditions, the same chances, and identical regard.”
Background of the title
The fighter was elevated to world championship status when former champion Taylor was categorized “temporary champion” as she paused from professional fighting. The WBC was planning to hold a contract bid on recently for a bout between the champion and compatriot the challenger.
Earlier case
In late 2023, another female fighter similarly gave up her WBC title after the council declined to permit her to participate in bouts under the same rule-set as male boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.
WBC’s position
The WBC president, the president, had mentioned previously that they would not authorize longer fights in women’s bouts. “In tennis women play 3 sets, regarding basketball the hoop is lower and the ball smaller and those are not contact sports. We support the health and protection of the athletes,” he stated on X.
Existing norm
The majority of female championship bouts have 10 rounds of reduced time each, and the fighter was one of over twenty fighters – such as Serrano – who initiated an effort in 2023 to have the right to fight under the identical regulations as men fighters.
Professional record
The athlete, who maintains a 21-1 professional boxing record, stated clearly that her demonstration extends beyond her own wishes, describing it as a fight for the next wave of female athletes. “It’s an honor of my accomplishment in attaining a title holder, but it’s time to take a stand for justice and for the sport’s development,” she concluded.
Future plans
The athlete is not retiring from boxing altogether, however, with her management team MVP saying she plans to pursue other championship opportunities and high-profile fights while continuing to demand on fighting in longer duration fights.
