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Chantelle Cameron decided to vacate her prestigious boxing title on Friday as an act of defiance against current regulations in women’s boxing, calling for the right to battle in three-minute rounds like male counterparts.

Stand against unequal treatment

The boxer’s move to give up her title originates from her firm stance with the World Boxing Council’s rule that female fighters fight in reduced rounds, which the veteran boxer considers unequal treatment.

“Women’s boxing has advanced significantly, but there’s still progress to be made,” she announced. “My conviction has always been in equal treatment and that includes the choice to compete under equal conditions, equal opportunities, and identical regard.”

Background of the belt

The fighter was elevated to WBC super-lightweight world champion when former champion Taylor was categorized “temporary champion” as she paused from professional fighting. The World Boxing Council was planning to hold a contract bid on recently for a bout between the champion and other UK fighter the challenger.

Previous precedent

In December 2023, fellow boxer Serrano likewise vacated her WBC title after the governing body would not authorize her to compete in fights under the same rule-set as men’s boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.

Organization’s viewpoint

The council head, Mauricio Sulaimán, had declared earlier in 2023 that they would not approve 12 three-minute rounds in women’s bouts. “For tennis female players compete fewer sets, for basketball the hoop is lower and the ball is smaller and those are less physical sports. We prioritize the safety and wellbeing of the athletes,” he stated on X.

Existing norm

Most women’s title fights have 10 rounds of two minutes each each, and the British boxer was among numerous athletes – such as Serrano – who started a movement in last year to have the choice to fight under the same rules as male boxers.

Professional record

The athlete, who maintains a 21-1 professional boxing record, made clear that her protest is more than her own wishes, 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 moment to make a statement for what’s right and for the boxing’s progression,” she continued.

Next steps

Cameron is not retiring from boxing altogether, however, with her management team MVP saying she intends to seek other championship opportunities and prestigious matches while persisting in her requirement on participating in extended rounds.