Chantelle Cameron vacates World Boxing Council title in demonstration against female boxing regulations

The super-lightweight champion decided to vacate her world championship belt on recently as a symbolic gesture against current regulations in the sport for women, insisting on the right to fight in extended rounds similar to male counterparts.

Protest against unequal treatment

The boxer’s move to give up her championship belt originates from her firm stance with the WBC’s rule that female fighters fight in reduced rounds, which the veteran boxer considers unfair standards.

“Women’s boxing has come a long way, but there’s still room for improvement,” she announced. “My conviction has always been in equal treatment and that includes the option to compete under equal conditions, the same chances, and identical regard.”

History of the championship

Cameron was upgraded to world championship status when the previous title holder was designated “inactive champion” as she took a break from professional fighting. The World Boxing Council was planning to hold a contract bid on recently for a bout between the champion and other UK fighter Sandy Ryan.

Earlier case

In late 2023, another female fighter similarly gave up her WBC title after the council refused to allow her to compete in fights under the equivalent rules as male boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.

WBC’s position

The organization’s leader, Mauricio Sulaimán, had mentioned before that they would not approve 12 three-minute rounds in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis they play fewer sets, for basketball the rim is reduced and the ball is smaller and those are not contact sports. We stand by the safety and wellbeing of the athletes,” he stated on X.

Existing norm

Most women’s title fights have ten rounds of reduced time each, and the fighter was one of over twenty fighters – like Serrano – who started a movement in last year to have the option to compete under the identical regulations as men fighters.

Career statistics

The boxer, who maintains a 21-1 professional boxing record, stated clearly that her demonstration goes beyond her own wishes, presenting it as a fight for the next wave of women fighters. “I’m proud of my success in becoming a WBC champion, but it’s right to protest for justice and for the boxing’s progression,” she added.

Next steps

The fighter is not leaving from professional fighting altogether, however, with her representatives MVP indicating she aims to chase other championship opportunities and prestigious matches while continuing to demand on fighting in longer duration fights.