Chantelle Cameron relinquishes World Boxing Council belt in demonstration against female boxing regulations
The super-lightweight champion voluntarily gave up her prestigious boxing title on Friday as an act of defiance against the status quo in female boxing, insisting on the opportunity to compete in longer rounds like male counterparts.
Demonstration against inequality
Her choice to give up her title comes from her clear disagreement with the boxing governing body’s requirement that female fighters compete in reduced rounds, which the 34-year-old views as unequal treatment.
“Female boxing has advanced significantly, but there’s still work to be done,” Cameron stated. “My conviction has always been in equality and that includes the option to fight equal rounds, identical prospects, and the same recognition.”
Context of the title
The fighter was elevated to title holder when the previous title holder was categorized “inactive champion” as she stepped away from professional fighting. The WBC was planning to hold a contract bid on Friday for a bout between Cameron and compatriot Sandy Ryan.
Earlier case
In December 2023, fellow boxer Serrano also relinquished her championship after the organization refused to allow her to fight in matches under the equivalent rules as male boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.
WBC’s position
The organization’s leader, Sulaimán, had declared before that they would not sanction 12 three-minute rounds in women’s bouts. “In tennis female players compete three sets, for basketball the rim is reduced and the ball smaller and those are non-contact activities. We prioritize the safety and wellbeing of the fighters,” he wrote on his platform.
Current standard
Most women’s title fights have multiple rounds of reduced time each, and Cameron was among numerous athletes – like Serrano – who started a movement in last year to have the option to fight under the same rules as men.
Fighting history
The athlete, who holds a 21-1 professional boxing record, made clear that her demonstration is more than individual choice, framing it as a battle for coming generations of women fighters. “I’m proud of my achievement in earning a WBC champion, but it’s time to take a stand for equality and for the future of the sport,” she continued.
Future plans
Cameron is not stepping away from boxing entirely, however, with her management team her team stating she aims to chase different title chances and prestigious matches while persisting in her requirement on fighting in longer duration fights.
