British boxer Cameron vacates WBC belt in protest against female boxing regulations
Chantelle Cameron decided to vacate her prestigious boxing title on Friday as an act of defiance against current regulations in female boxing, calling for the right to battle in three-minute rounds like male counterparts.
Stand against unequal treatment
Her choice to vacate her title comes from her clear disagreement with the WBC’s requirement that women boxers compete in two-minute rounds, which the 34-year-old views as unfair standards.
“Female boxing has advanced significantly, but there’s still progress to be made,” the boxer declared. “I firmly believe in equality and that includes the choice to fight equal rounds, equal opportunities, and the same recognition.”
Background of the championship
The British boxer was upgraded to title holder when the previous title holder was named “temporary champion” as she paused from professional fighting. The boxing organization was set to have a contract bid on that day for a bout between Cameron and compatriot the challenger.
Earlier case
In December 2023, fellow boxer Serrano also relinquished her championship after the council refused to allow her to compete in fights under the identical regulations as male boxing, with longer duration fights.
WBC’s position
The organization’s leader, Sulaimán, had mentioned previously that they would not approve longer fights in female matches. “In tennis women play fewer sets, regarding basketball the basket is shorter and the ball is smaller and those are non-contact activities. We prioritize the health and protection of the athletes,” he stated on X.
Current standard
Typically women’s championship matches have 10 rounds of shorter duration each, and the British boxer was part of more than two dozen boxers – such as Serrano – who initiated an effort in last year to have the choice to compete under the identical regulations as men fighters.
Career statistics
Cameron, who holds a impressive fight record, made clear that her protest extends beyond her own wishes, framing it as a battle for coming generations of women fighters. “It’s an honor of my accomplishment in becoming a world champion, but it’s time to take a stand for what’s right and for the future of the sport,” she added.
Future plans
Cameron is not leaving from boxing entirely, however, with her promoters MVP saying she intends to seek alternative belt prospects and high-profile fights while persisting in her requirement on fighting in extended rounds.