Chantelle Cameron gives up World Boxing Council title in stand against women’s boxing rules
The British fighter voluntarily gave up her WBC super-lightweight title on this week as an act of defiance against existing rules in women’s boxing, insisting on the option to compete in extended rounds similar to male counterparts.
Protest against inequality
Her choice to give up her championship belt stems from her strong opposition with the World Boxing Council’s mandate that women participate in reduced rounds, which the experienced fighter considers unequal treatment.
“Female boxing has made great strides, but there’s still progress to be made,” she announced. “My conviction has always been in equality and that includes the choice to have identical rules, equal opportunities, and identical regard.”
Context of the title
Cameron was elevated to title holder when Katie Taylor was categorized “inactive champion” as she stepped away from the sport. The World Boxing Council was preparing for a contract bid on that day for a match between Cameron and fellow British boxer her potential opponent.
Prior instance
In December 2023, another female fighter likewise vacated her WBC title after the organization would not authorize her to compete in bouts under the equivalent rules as fighters’ boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.
WBC’s position
The WBC president, Mauricio Sulaimán, had stated before that they would not sanction 12 three-minute rounds in women’s bouts. “In tennis they play 3 sets, in basketball the rim is reduced and the ball is smaller and those are not contact sports. We prioritize the safety and wellbeing of the fighters,” he commented on X.
Current standard
Typically women’s championship matches have 10 rounds of reduced time each, and Cameron was among more than two dozen boxers – including Serrano – who launched a campaign in last year to have the option to fight under the same rules as men.
Professional record
The boxer, who holds a 21-1 professional boxing record, made clear that her stand goes beyond her own wishes, describing it as a struggle for the next wave of women fighters. “It’s an honor of my success in becoming a title holder, but it’s moment to make a statement for justice and for the future of the sport,” she concluded.
Next steps
Cameron is not retiring from the sport completely, however, with her management team her promotion company saying she plans to pursue other championship opportunities and high-profile fights while maintaining her insistence on participating in longer duration fights.
