British boxer Cameron relinquishes WBC belt in demonstration against rules for women boxers
Chantelle Cameron chose to relinquish her WBC super-lightweight title on Friday as an act of defiance against existing rules in female boxing, demanding the right to battle in longer rounds like male counterparts.
Demonstration against disparity
The boxer’s move to relinquish her championship belt stems from her firm stance with the WBC’s mandate that women boxers participate in two-minute rounds, which the experienced fighter views as gender disparity.
“Women’s boxing has come a long way, but there’s still work to be done,” the boxer declared. “I’ve always believed in equality and that includes the option to fight equal rounds, the same chances, and the same recognition.”
Background of the championship
The fighter was elevated to WBC super-lightweight world champion when the previous title holder was designated “Champion in Recess” as she paused from the sport. The boxing organization was planning to hold a contract bid on recently for a match between Cameron and other UK fighter the challenger.
Prior instance
In the end of last year, fellow boxer Serrano likewise vacated her WBC title after the council refused to allow her to fight in matches under the same rule-set as men’s boxing, with extended rounds.
WBC’s position
The WBC president, the president, had stated before that they would not approve 12 three-minute rounds in female matches. “For tennis they play fewer sets, for basketball the rim is reduced and the size is reduced and those are not contact sports. We prioritize the welfare of the athletes,” he stated on X.
Current standard
Typically women’s championship matches have multiple rounds of reduced time each, and the British boxer was part of more than two dozen boxers – such as Serrano – who started a movement in last year to have the right to participate under the equivalent conditions as men fighters.
Fighting history
The athlete, who boasts a 21-1 professional boxing record, made clear that her protest is more than individual choice, presenting it as a battle for coming generations of women fighters. “I feel proud of my achievement in attaining a title holder, but it’s time to take a stand for justice and for the boxing’s progression,” she added.
Future plans
Cameron is not leaving from boxing altogether, however, with her representatives her team indicating she intends to seek other championship opportunities and prestigious matches while continuing to demand on participating in longer duration fights.
