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Chantelle Cameron voluntarily gave up her world championship belt on recently as an act of defiance against current regulations in women’s boxing, demanding the option to fight in extended rounds matching male counterparts.

Stand against disparity

The boxer’s move to give up her championship belt comes from her firm stance with the World Boxing Council’s requirement that women compete in two-minute rounds, which the experienced fighter views as gender disparity.

“The sport for women has made great strides, but there’s still progress to be made,” the boxer declared. “I firmly believe in fairness and that includes the right to fight equal rounds, equal opportunities, and the same recognition.”

History of the title

The British boxer was promoted to WBC super-lightweight world champion when the previous title holder was categorized “inactive champion” as she took a break from professional fighting. The boxing organization was preparing for a financial bid on Friday for a fight between the champion and fellow British boxer Sandy Ryan.

Previous precedent

In December 2023, another female fighter similarly gave up her belt after the organization declined to permit her to fight in fights under the equivalent rules as male boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.

WBC’s position

The WBC president, Sulaimán, had declared previously that they would not approve 12 three-minute rounds in female matches. “For tennis female players compete fewer sets, regarding basketball the hoop is lower and the ball is smaller and those are non-contact activities. We prioritize the welfare of the fighters,” he commented on X.

Current standard

The majority of female championship bouts have ten rounds of reduced time each, and the fighter was among more than two dozen boxers – such as Serrano – who started a movement in last year to have the right to compete under the equivalent conditions as men.

Career statistics

Cameron, who holds a strong career statistics, stated clearly that her protest goes beyond individual choice, framing it as a battle for future generations of women fighters. “I’m proud of my accomplishment in attaining a world champion, but it’s right to protest for equality and for the sport’s development,” she continued.

Future plans

Cameron is not stepping away from the sport entirely, however, with her representatives her promotion company indicating she plans to pursue other championship opportunities and high-profile fights while persisting in her requirement on participating in longer duration fights.