Chantelle Cameron relinquishes World Boxing Council belt in stand against female boxing regulations

The British fighter voluntarily gave up her world championship belt on this week as a symbolic gesture against current regulations in female boxing, demanding the right to battle in longer rounds matching male counterparts.

Demonstration against inequality

The boxer’s move to relinquish her world title stems from her strong opposition with the boxing governing body’s requirement that female fighters participate in two-minute rounds, which the 34-year-old views as unfair standards.

“Women’s boxing has come a long way, but there’s still work to be done,” the boxer declared. “I’ve always believed in equal treatment and that includes the right to fight equal rounds, the same chances, and the same recognition.”

History of the belt

The British boxer was upgraded to WBC super-lightweight world champion when Katie Taylor was designated “temporary champion” as she stepped away from the sport. The boxing organization was preparing for a financial bid on Friday for a fight between Cameron and compatriot the challenger.

Earlier case

In late 2023, Amanda Serrano similarly gave up her belt after the governing body declined to permit her to fight in fights under the same rule-set as men’s boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.

WBC’s position

The WBC president, Sulaimán, had declared previously that they would not approve 12 three-minute rounds in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis women play 3 sets, regarding basketball the rim is reduced and the ball smaller and those are less physical sports. We support the health and protection of the athletes,” he commented on social media.

Existing norm

Typically women’s championship matches have 10 rounds of shorter duration each, and Cameron was part of numerous athletes – including Serrano – who launched a campaign in recently to have the choice to participate under the equivalent conditions as men fighters.

Fighting history

The athlete, who boasts a strong career statistics, stated clearly that her demonstration goes beyond individual choice, presenting it as a struggle for coming generations of women fighters. “It’s an honor of my achievement in becoming a title holder, but it’s time to take a stand for what’s right and for the sport’s development,” she added.

Next steps

The athlete is not retiring from the sport entirely, however, with her representatives MVP stating she plans to pursue alternative belt prospects and marquee bouts while continuing to demand on participating in extended rounds.