🔗 Share this article

Chantelle Cameron chose to relinquish her world championship belt on Friday as a form of protest against current regulations in female boxing, demanding the right to compete in extended rounds like male counterparts.

Protest against unequal treatment

The boxer’s move to give up her championship belt originates from her firm stance with the World Boxing Council’s rule that women compete in shorter rounds, which the veteran boxer regards as unequal treatment.

“Women’s boxing has advanced significantly, but there’s still room for improvement,” she announced. “I firmly believe in fairness and that includes the right to compete under equal conditions, equal opportunities, and equal respect.”

Context of the title

Cameron was elevated to title holder when former champion Taylor was designated “temporary champion” as she stepped away from professional fighting. The boxing organization was set to have a contract bid on that day for a fight between Cameron and fellow British boxer Sandy Ryan.

Previous precedent

In the end of last year, Amanda Serrano likewise vacated her championship after the council refused to allow her to fight in matches under the identical regulations as men’s boxing, with extended rounds.

Organization’s viewpoint

The WBC president, Sulaimán, had declared previously that they would not sanction longer fights in women’s boxing. “For tennis women play three sets, in basketball the hoop is lower and the size is reduced and those are less physical sports. We support the health and protection of the boxers,” he stated on X.

Current standard

The majority of female championship bouts have multiple rounds of shorter duration each, and Cameron was one of more than two dozen boxers – including Serrano – who started a movement in last year to have the choice to participate under the same rules as men.

Career statistics

The boxer, who maintains a 21-1 professional boxing record, emphasized that her demonstration goes beyond individual choice, framing it as a battle for coming generations of female athletes. “I’m proud of my achievement in attaining a title holder, but it’s right to protest for equality and for the future of the sport,” she continued.

Next steps

The athlete is not stepping away from boxing completely, however, with her management team her promotion company indicating she intends to seek alternative belt prospects and high-profile fights while continuing to demand on participating in three-minute rounds.