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Chantelle Cameron decided to vacate her world championship belt on recently as a form of protest against existing rules in women’s boxing, insisting on the right to battle in extended rounds like male counterparts.

Protest against disparity

Cameron’s decision to vacate her world title comes from her clear disagreement with the boxing governing body’s requirement that women fight in two-minute rounds, which the experienced fighter regards as unfair standards.

“Women’s boxing has come a long way, but there’s still progress to be made,” Cameron stated. “My conviction has always been in equal treatment and that includes the right to have identical rules, identical prospects, and the same recognition.”

History of the championship

Cameron was upgraded to WBC super-lightweight world champion when the previous title holder was designated “Champion in Recess” as she stepped away from professional fighting. The World Boxing Council was set to have a financial bid on recently for a match between Cameron and compatriot her potential opponent.

Previous precedent

In the end of last year, fellow boxer Serrano similarly gave up her belt after the governing body declined to permit her to participate in bouts under the identical regulations as men’s boxing, with longer duration fights.

WBC’s position

The council head, Sulaimán, had stated before that they would not approve extended rounds in female matches. “For tennis they play 3 sets, regarding basketball the hoop is lower and the size is reduced and those are not contact sports. We prioritize the safety and wellbeing of the athletes,” he stated on his platform.

Present practice

Most women’s title fights have multiple rounds of reduced time each, and the British boxer was one of over twenty fighters – like Serrano – who initiated an effort in 2023 to have the option to participate under the equivalent conditions as men fighters.

Career statistics

Cameron, who maintains a 21-1 professional boxing record, made clear that her demonstration extends beyond her own wishes, presenting it as a battle for coming generations of female athletes. “I feel proud of my achievement in becoming a WBC champion, but it’s right to protest for justice and for the sport’s development,” she concluded.

Next steps

Cameron is not stepping away from the sport altogether, however, with her representatives MVP stating she aims to chase different title chances and high-profile fights while maintaining her insistence on participating in extended rounds.