The fighter Cameron gives up World Boxing Council championship in demonstration against rules for women boxers
Chantelle Cameron chose to relinquish her WBC super-lightweight title on this week as an act of defiance against the status quo in female boxing, demanding the option to compete in longer rounds matching male boxers.
Protest against inequality
Her choice to relinquish her world title comes from her strong opposition with the boxing governing body’s requirement that women fight in shorter rounds, which the experienced fighter considers gender disparity.
“Women’s boxing has advanced significantly, but there’s still progress to be made,” Cameron stated. “I’ve always believed in fairness and that includes the choice to fight equal rounds, the same chances, and identical regard.”
Background of the title
The British boxer was upgraded to world championship status when Katie Taylor was designated “inactive champion” as she took a break from professional fighting. The World Boxing Council was preparing for a contract bid on recently for a bout between the champion and fellow British boxer the challenger.
Earlier case
In the end of last year, fellow boxer Serrano similarly gave up her WBC title after the organization would not authorize her to participate in matches under the identical regulations as fighters’ boxing, with longer duration fights.
Council’s stance
The WBC president, Mauricio Sulaimán, had declared previously that they would not approve longer fights in female matches. “Regarding tennis female players compete three sets, in basketball the rim is reduced and the ball is smaller and those are non-contact activities. We support the safety and wellbeing of the athletes,” he wrote on his platform.
Existing norm
Typically women’s championship matches have multiple rounds of reduced time each, and the fighter was one of over twenty fighters – like Serrano – who started a movement in recently to have the choice to compete under the identical regulations as male boxers.
Fighting history
Cameron, who maintains a 21-1 professional boxing record, emphasized that her stand goes beyond her own wishes, presenting it as a battle for the next wave of female athletes. “I’m proud of my achievement in becoming a WBC champion, but it’s time to take a stand for what’s right and for the future of the sport,” she continued.
Future plans
The athlete is not stepping away from boxing entirely, however, with her promoters MVP saying she intends to seek different title chances and high-profile fights while maintaining her insistence on fighting in extended rounds.
