British boxer Cameron gives up World Boxing Council belt in protest against women’s boxing rules
The super-lightweight champion voluntarily gave up her prestigious boxing title on recently as a symbolic gesture against existing rules in the sport for women, demanding the right to fight in extended rounds matching male counterparts.
Protest against inequality
The boxer’s move to give up her title originates from her clear disagreement with the WBC’s requirement that women participate in two-minute rounds, which the experienced fighter regards as unequal treatment.
“Women’s boxing has come a long way, but there’s still work to be done,” Cameron stated. “My conviction has always been in fairness and that includes the right to fight equal rounds, the same chances, and identical regard.”
Context of the title
The British boxer was elevated to world championship status when the previous title holder was designated “inactive champion” as she stepped away from the sport. The boxing organization was preparing for a contract bid on that day for a bout between Cameron and fellow British boxer the challenger.
Previous precedent
In the end of last year, Amanda Serrano likewise vacated her WBC title after the council refused to allow her to fight in matches under the equivalent rules as fighters’ boxing, with longer duration fights.
Council’s stance
The WBC president, Mauricio Sulaimán, had stated before that they would not approve 12 three-minute rounds in women’s bouts. “For tennis female players compete three sets, regarding basketball the basket is shorter and the size is reduced and those are not contact sports. We stand by the health and protection of the boxers,” he stated on his platform.
Current standard
Most women’s title fights have multiple rounds of reduced time each, and Cameron was one of more than two dozen boxers – such as Serrano – who initiated an effort in 2023 to have the choice to fight under the equivalent conditions as male boxers.
Career statistics
The boxer, who holds a impressive fight record, emphasized that her stand is more than her own wishes, presenting it as a fight for future generations of female boxers. “It’s an honor of my accomplishment in attaining a WBC champion, but it’s moment to make a statement for equality and for the sport’s development,” she continued.
Next steps
The fighter is not retiring from the sport entirely, however, with her promoters her promotion company saying she aims to chase other championship opportunities and prestigious matches while continuing to demand on fighting in extended rounds.
