Chantelle Cameron relinquishes WBC belt in stand against women’s boxing rules
The British fighter voluntarily gave up her world championship belt on this week as a symbolic gesture against existing rules in the sport for women, demanding the right to compete in longer rounds similar to men fighters.
Stand against inequality
Cameron’s decision to give up her championship belt originates from her clear disagreement with the boxing governing body’s requirement that female fighters participate in reduced rounds, which the 34-year-old considers unequal treatment.
“The sport for women has made great strides, but there’s still room for improvement,” Cameron stated. “I’ve always believed in equal treatment and that includes the option to compete under equal conditions, equal opportunities, and identical regard.”
Context of the belt
The fighter was elevated to title holder when former champion Taylor was designated “Champion in Recess” as she stepped away from the sport. The WBC was preparing for a contract bid on Friday for a fight between Cameron and fellow British boxer Sandy Ryan.
Earlier case
In December 2023, Amanda Serrano similarly gave up her WBC title after the council would not authorize her to fight in bouts under the same rule-set as fighters’ boxing, with extended rounds.
WBC’s position
The WBC president, Sulaimán, had mentioned earlier in 2023 that they would not sanction extended rounds in women’s boxing. “Regarding tennis female players compete fewer sets, in basketball the rim is reduced and the ball is smaller and those are not contact sports. We stand by the health and protection of the fighters,” he wrote on his platform.
Present practice
Most women’s title fights have multiple rounds of two minutes each each, and Cameron was among numerous athletes – like Serrano – who started a movement in recently to have the option to participate under the identical regulations as men fighters.
Fighting history
The boxer, who boasts a 21-1 professional boxing record, stated clearly that her demonstration goes beyond individual choice, framing it as a struggle for future generations of women fighters. “I feel proud of my achievement in earning a WBC champion, but it’s right to protest for what’s right and for the boxing’s progression,” she added.
Future plans
Cameron is not stepping away from professional fighting altogether, however, with her management team her team saying she plans to pursue different title chances and marquee bouts while persisting in her requirement on competing in longer duration fights.
