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Chantelle Cameron voluntarily gave up her world championship belt on this week as a symbolic gesture against the status quo in female boxing, demanding the opportunity to compete in longer rounds similar to men fighters.

Stand against disparity

The boxer’s move to give up her world title stems from her strong opposition with the boxing governing body’s requirement that women boxers participate in reduced rounds, which the 34-year-old views as unfair standards.

“Female boxing has come a long way, but there’s still room for improvement,” she announced. “I firmly believe in equality and that includes the right to compete under equal conditions, equal opportunities, and identical regard.”

History of the title

Cameron was promoted to world championship status when former champion Taylor was designated “inactive champion” as she stepped away from professional fighting. The WBC was preparing for a contract bid on recently for a bout between Cameron and other UK fighter Sandy Ryan.

Prior instance

In late 2023, another female fighter similarly gave up her WBC title after the council would not authorize her to participate in matches under the identical regulations as men’s boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.

WBC’s position

The WBC president, Mauricio Sulaimán, had mentioned earlier in 2023 that they would not authorize 12 three-minute rounds in women’s bouts. “In tennis female players compete fewer sets, in basketball the basket is shorter and the ball is smaller and those are not contact sports. We prioritize the health and protection of the boxers,” he wrote on X.

Present practice

The majority of female championship bouts have ten rounds of reduced time each, and the fighter was part of more than two dozen boxers – such as Serrano – who initiated an effort in recently to have the choice to fight under the identical regulations as men fighters.

Fighting history

Cameron, who holds a impressive fight record, emphasized that her protest is more than personal preference, describing it as a fight for the next wave of female boxers. “I’m proud of my accomplishment in earning a title holder, but it’s moment to make a statement for what’s right and for the sport’s development,” she continued.

Next steps

The athlete is not stepping away from boxing altogether, however, with her representatives MVP saying she aims to chase alternative belt prospects and prestigious matches while maintaining her insistence on participating in three-minute rounds.