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Chantelle Cameron chose to relinquish her WBC super-lightweight title on Friday as an act of defiance against the status quo in women’s boxing, insisting on the opportunity to compete in longer rounds like men fighters.

Protest against disparity

Cameron’s decision to give up her championship belt comes from her firm stance with the World Boxing Council’s requirement that women boxers compete in two-minute rounds, which the experienced fighter considers unequal treatment.

“Female boxing has made great strides, but there’s still progress to be made,” she announced. “I firmly believe in equal treatment and that includes the option to have identical rules, equal opportunities, and identical regard.”

History of the title

The British boxer was upgraded to title holder when former champion Taylor was designated “Champion in Recess” as she took a break from professional fighting. The World Boxing Council was set to have a financial bid on that day for a bout between the champion and compatriot Sandy Ryan.

Previous precedent

In December 2023, another female fighter also relinquished her WBC title after the organization would not authorize her to compete in fights under the equivalent rules as male boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.

WBC’s position

The organization’s leader, the president, had declared previously that they would not authorize 12 three-minute rounds in women’s boxing. “Regarding tennis they play three sets, for basketball the basket is shorter and the size is reduced and those are less physical sports. We support the welfare of the athletes,” he wrote on his platform.

Current standard

Typically women’s championship matches have ten rounds of two minutes each each, and the fighter was among more than two dozen boxers – such as Serrano – who started a movement in 2023 to have the right to fight under the equivalent conditions as male boxers.

Career statistics

The athlete, who holds a 21-1 professional boxing record, made clear that her demonstration extends beyond individual choice, presenting it as a fight for future generations of women fighters. “I feel proud of my achievement in earning a title holder, but it’s right to protest for equality and for the boxing’s progression,” she added.

Next steps

Cameron is not retiring from the sport altogether, however, with her representatives MVP indicating she intends to seek other championship opportunities and prestigious matches while maintaining her insistence on competing in extended rounds.