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Chantelle Cameron decided to vacate her WBC super-lightweight title on Friday as a symbolic gesture against the status quo in the sport for women, calling for the opportunity to compete in three-minute rounds matching male boxers.

Protest against disparity

Her choice to relinquish her title comes from her firm stance with the World Boxing Council’s requirement that women fight in shorter rounds, which the experienced fighter considers unequal treatment.

“Women’s boxing has advanced significantly, but there’s still progress to be made,” the boxer declared. “My conviction has always been in equal treatment and that includes the right to have identical rules, equal opportunities, and equal respect.”

Context of the title

The fighter was upgraded to title holder when former champion Taylor was named “temporary champion” as she paused from the sport. The WBC was planning to hold a purse bid on Friday for a match between Cameron and other UK fighter her potential opponent.

Earlier case

In the end of last year, Amanda Serrano similarly gave up her WBC title after the organization refused to allow her to compete in bouts under the same rule-set as men’s boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.

Organization’s viewpoint

The council head, Mauricio Sulaimán, had mentioned earlier in 2023 that they would not authorize extended rounds in female matches. “For tennis they play three sets, for basketball the basket is shorter and the ball is smaller and those are non-contact activities. We stand by the safety and wellbeing of the athletes,” he stated on social media.

Current standard

Most women’s title fights have ten rounds of two minutes each each, and Cameron was among numerous athletes – such as Serrano – who initiated an effort in recently to have the choice to fight under the equivalent conditions as men fighters.

Career statistics

The athlete, who holds a strong career statistics, emphasized that her stand extends beyond individual choice, framing it as a struggle for future generations of female boxers. “I feel proud of my success in attaining a world champion, but it’s time to take a stand for justice and for the sport’s development,” she continued.

Next steps

The fighter is not stepping away from professional fighting altogether, however, with her management team her team saying she plans to pursue other championship opportunities and high-profile fights while maintaining her insistence on competing in three-minute rounds.