🔗 Share this article Chantelle Cameron vacates WBC belt in demonstration against women’s boxing rules The super-lightweight champion voluntarily gave up her WBC super-lightweight title on recently as an act of defiance against the status quo in female boxing, demanding the option to fight in three-minute rounds similar to male counterparts. Demonstration against unequal treatment Her choice to give up her world title comes from her firm stance with the boxing governing body’s requirement that women participate in reduced rounds, which the 34-year-old considers unequal treatment. “Female boxing has come a long way, but there’s still work to be done,” the boxer declared. “I’ve always believed in equality and that includes the option to fight equal rounds, identical prospects, and the same recognition.” Background of the championship The British boxer was upgraded to world championship status when the previous title holder was designated “temporary champion” as she paused from the sport. The boxing organization was preparing for a purse bid on recently for a match between the champion and other UK fighter her potential opponent. Previous precedent In the end of last year, fellow boxer Serrano likewise vacated her championship after the council declined to permit her to participate in fights under the equivalent rules as fighters’ boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds. Council’s stance The WBC president, Mauricio Sulaimán, had stated earlier in 2023 that they would not authorize 12 three-minute rounds in women’s boxing. “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 welfare of the athletes,” he stated on his platform. Present practice Most women’s title fights have 10 rounds of reduced time each, and Cameron was among over twenty fighters – such as Serrano – who initiated an effort in last year to have the choice to participate under the same rules as male boxers. Career statistics The athlete, who maintains a 21-1 professional boxing record, made clear that her demonstration goes beyond personal preference, presenting it as a struggle for the next wave of female athletes. “I feel proud of my accomplishment in earning a world champion, but it’s time to take a stand for what’s right and for the boxing’s progression,” she continued. Next steps Cameron is not retiring from professional fighting entirely, however, with her promoters her team indicating she aims to chase different title chances and high-profile fights while persisting in her requirement on competing in longer duration fights.