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Chantelle Cameron chose to relinquish her world championship belt on Friday as an act of defiance against existing rules in the sport for women, insisting on the option to battle in three-minute rounds like male boxers.

Demonstration against unequal treatment

Cameron’s decision to give up her title originates from her clear disagreement with the World Boxing Council’s mandate that female fighters compete in two-minute rounds, which the veteran boxer regards as unfair standards.

“Female boxing has advanced significantly, but there’s still progress to be made,” the boxer declared. “My conviction has always been in fairness and that includes the right to have identical rules, the same chances, and equal respect.”

History of the title

The fighter was promoted to WBC super-lightweight world champion when the previous title holder was named “temporary champion” as she paused from professional fighting. The World Boxing Council was set to have a contract bid on Friday for a bout between Cameron and compatriot the challenger.

Earlier case

In the end of last year, another female fighter likewise vacated her WBC title after the organization would not authorize her to participate in matches under the equivalent rules as male boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.

WBC’s position

The council head, Sulaimán, had mentioned before that they would not authorize 12 three-minute rounds in women’s boxing. “For tennis female players compete fewer sets, in basketball the basket is shorter and the ball smaller and those are less physical sports. We stand by the health and protection of the athletes,” he commented on social media.

Present practice

Most women’s title fights have ten rounds of reduced time each, and Cameron was among over twenty fighters – including Serrano – who initiated an effort in 2023 to have the option to participate under the identical regulations as men.

Fighting history

The athlete, who maintains a impressive fight record, emphasized that her protest goes beyond individual choice, framing it as a fight for the next wave of women fighters. “I’m proud of my accomplishment in attaining a WBC champion, but it’s right to protest for what’s right and for the boxing’s progression,” she continued.

Next steps

The fighter is not leaving from boxing entirely, however, with her management team MVP stating she intends to seek alternative belt prospects and high-profile fights while persisting in her requirement on participating in longer duration fights.