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Chantelle Cameron decided to vacate her WBC super-lightweight title on this week as a symbolic gesture against current regulations in women’s boxing, insisting on the option to compete in longer rounds similar to male boxers.

Demonstration against unequal treatment

Her choice to relinquish her world title originates from her firm stance with the World Boxing Council’s mandate that women compete in two-minute rounds, which the veteran boxer regards as gender disparity.

“Female boxing has made great strides, but there’s still room for improvement,” Cameron stated. “I’ve always believed in equal treatment and that includes the option to fight equal rounds, equal opportunities, and identical regard.”

History of the title

The fighter was elevated to WBC super-lightweight world champion when Katie Taylor was categorized “Champion in Recess” as she stepped away from professional fighting. The boxing organization was set to have a contract bid on recently for a bout between the champion and compatriot Sandy Ryan.

Earlier case

In late 2023, another female fighter similarly gave up her belt after the organization would not authorize her to fight in matches under the equivalent rules as fighters’ boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.

Council’s stance

The WBC president, Sulaimán, had stated before that they would not sanction longer fights in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis women play fewer sets, for basketball the rim is reduced and the size is reduced and those are less physical sports. We stand by the safety and wellbeing of the boxers,” he commented on X.

Current standard

Typically women’s championship matches have ten rounds of reduced time each, and the fighter was among more than two dozen boxers – such as Serrano – who started a movement in last year to have the choice to fight under the identical regulations as men fighters.

Career statistics

The athlete, who holds a 21-1 professional boxing record, emphasized that her demonstration is more than personal preference, presenting it as a fight for future generations of women fighters. “I’m proud of my accomplishment in becoming a WBC champion, but it’s time to take a stand for what’s right and for the sport’s development,” she added.

Coming actions

The fighter is not retiring from boxing entirely, however, with her promoters her promotion company stating she intends to seek different title chances and prestigious matches while persisting in her requirement on participating in extended rounds.