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Chantelle Cameron decided to vacate her WBC super-lightweight title on this week as a symbolic gesture against existing rules in women’s boxing, demanding the option to fight in three-minute rounds matching male boxers.

Protest against unequal treatment

Her choice to vacate her championship belt stems from her strong opposition with the World Boxing Council’s rule that women participate in shorter rounds, which the 34-year-old considers gender disparity.

“The sport for women has made great strides, but there’s still room for improvement,” the boxer declared. “I firmly believe in fairness and that includes the choice to fight equal rounds, equal opportunities, and the same recognition.”

Background of the title

Cameron was upgraded to title holder when the previous title holder was designated “inactive champion” as she stepped away from boxing. The World Boxing Council was set to have a financial bid on Friday for a fight between the champion and compatriot Sandy Ryan.

Prior instance

In December 2023, fellow boxer Serrano likewise vacated her WBC title after the organization refused to allow her to compete in fights under the same rule-set as male boxing, with extended rounds.

WBC’s position

The council head, Mauricio Sulaimán, had mentioned before that they would not sanction 12 three-minute rounds in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis women play fewer sets, in basketball the basket is shorter and the size is reduced and those are not contact sports. We prioritize the safety and wellbeing of the fighters,” he wrote on his platform.

Present practice

The majority of female championship bouts have ten rounds of two minutes each each, and the British boxer was one of more than two dozen boxers – including Serrano – who initiated an effort in 2023 to have the option to participate under the identical regulations as men fighters.

Career statistics

The boxer, who boasts a impressive fight record, stated clearly that her protest is more than her own wishes, presenting it as a struggle for the next wave of female athletes. “It’s an honor of my achievement in attaining a world champion, but it’s time to take a stand for equality and for the sport’s development,” she concluded.

Future plans

Cameron is not retiring from the sport altogether, however, with her promoters MVP indicating she aims to chase alternative belt prospects and marquee bouts while persisting in her requirement on participating in extended rounds.