British boxer Cameron relinquishes World Boxing Council title in protest against rules for women boxers
The super-lightweight champion decided to vacate her WBC super-lightweight title on Friday as a symbolic gesture against the status quo in women’s boxing, demanding the option to compete in longer rounds matching male counterparts.
Stand against disparity
Her choice to vacate her title comes from her firm stance with the World Boxing Council’s rule that women boxers fight in two-minute rounds, which the experienced fighter considers unfair standards.
“The sport for women has advanced significantly, but there’s still work to be done,” the boxer declared. “I’ve always believed in equal treatment and that includes the right to compete under equal conditions, the same chances, and the same recognition.”
Background of the belt
Cameron was elevated to world championship status when Katie Taylor was named “temporary champion” as she paused from boxing. The World Boxing Council was planning to hold a contract bid on that day for a match between the champion and compatriot the challenger.
Prior instance
In late 2023, another female fighter also relinquished her belt after the organization refused to allow her to compete in matches under the equivalent rules as men’s boxing, with extended rounds.
Council’s stance
The organization’s leader, the president, had declared earlier in 2023 that they would not authorize longer fights in women’s boxing. “In tennis they play three sets, in basketball the hoop is lower and the size is reduced and those are less physical sports. We support the safety and wellbeing of the athletes,” he wrote on X.
Current standard
The majority of female championship bouts have ten rounds of reduced time each, and the fighter was among over twenty fighters – like Serrano – who initiated an effort in 2023 to have the choice to fight under the identical regulations as male boxers.
Fighting history
Cameron, who boasts a impressive fight record, made clear that her protest is more than her own wishes, presenting it as a fight for the next wave of female boxers. “It’s an honor of my accomplishment in attaining a WBC champion, but it’s right to protest for equality and for the boxing’s progression,” she continued.
Next steps
The fighter is not leaving from professional fighting completely, however, with her management team her team saying she intends to seek other championship opportunities and prestigious matches while persisting in her requirement on fighting in three-minute rounds.
