Chantelle Cameron vacates WBC championship in demonstration against women’s boxing rules

Chantelle Cameron decided to vacate her prestigious boxing title on recently as an act of defiance against current regulations in women’s boxing, calling for the right to compete in three-minute rounds matching male boxers.

Protest against inequality

Cameron’s decision to relinquish her championship belt originates from her firm stance with the WBC’s requirement that women participate in reduced rounds, which the experienced fighter views as unfair standards.

“The sport for women has come a long way, but there’s still work to be done,” Cameron stated. “My conviction has always been in equal treatment and that includes the option to have identical rules, equal opportunities, and identical regard.”

Context of the belt

The fighter was promoted to title holder when the previous title holder was named “temporary champion” as she stepped away from the sport. The World Boxing Council was preparing for a purse bid on Friday for a fight between Cameron and fellow British boxer her potential opponent.

Previous precedent

In late 2023, fellow boxer Serrano likewise vacated her belt after the council refused to allow her to compete in matches under the same rule-set as fighters’ boxing, with longer duration fights.

Council’s stance

The council head, Mauricio Sulaimán, had stated earlier in 2023 that they would not authorize extended rounds in female matches. “Regarding tennis women play fewer sets, for basketball the hoop is lower and the ball is smaller and those are less physical sports. We prioritize the health and protection of the boxers,” he wrote on his platform.

Existing norm

The majority of female championship bouts have multiple rounds of shorter duration each, and the British boxer was part of over twenty fighters – including Serrano – who launched a campaign in recently to have the right to participate under the equivalent conditions as men fighters.

Career statistics

The boxer, who maintains a strong career statistics, stated clearly that her stand goes beyond personal preference, presenting it as a battle for coming generations of female boxers. “I’m proud of my accomplishment in earning a WBC champion, but it’s moment to make a statement for what’s right and for the boxing’s progression,” she added.

Future plans

Cameron is not retiring from professional fighting entirely, however, with her management team her promotion company indicating she plans to pursue other championship opportunities and prestigious matches while continuing to demand on fighting in longer duration fights.