🔗 Share this article

Chantelle Cameron voluntarily gave up her world championship belt on this week as a symbolic gesture against the status quo in the sport for women, demanding the right to battle in extended rounds matching male counterparts.

Demonstration against disparity

Cameron’s decision to vacate her championship belt comes from her firm stance with the World Boxing Council’s mandate that women participate in two-minute rounds, which the veteran boxer views as unfair standards.

“Female boxing has advanced significantly, but there’s still room for improvement,” the boxer declared. “I firmly believe in equality and that includes the option to fight equal rounds, identical prospects, and equal respect.”

History of the belt

The fighter was elevated to WBC super-lightweight world champion when former champion Taylor was categorized “inactive champion” as she stepped away from professional fighting. The boxing organization was preparing for a contract bid on Friday for a match between the champion and fellow British boxer her potential opponent.

Earlier case

In late 2023, fellow boxer Serrano similarly gave up her belt after the organization would not authorize her to compete in bouts under the identical regulations as male boxing, with extended rounds.

Council’s stance

The WBC president, the president, had stated before that they would not approve longer fights in women’s boxing. “In tennis women play fewer sets, in basketball the basket is shorter and the ball is smaller and those are less physical sports. We prioritize the welfare of the athletes,” he commented on social media.

Current standard

The majority of female championship bouts have ten rounds of two minutes each each, and Cameron was among numerous athletes – like Serrano – who launched a campaign in last year to have the choice to participate under the identical regulations as men.

Career statistics

The athlete, who holds a 21-1 professional boxing record, stated clearly that her protest goes beyond her own wishes, presenting it as a fight for coming generations of female boxers. “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 retiring from professional fighting altogether, however, with her representatives her team saying she aims to chase different title chances and high-profile fights while continuing to demand on participating in extended rounds.