The fighter Cameron gives up WBC title in stand against women’s boxing rules
The British fighter voluntarily gave up her world championship belt on recently as an act of defiance against existing rules in the sport for women, insisting on the option to fight in extended rounds matching male boxers.
Protest against inequality
Cameron’s decision to relinquish her championship belt stems from her strong opposition with the WBC’s rule that female fighters participate in shorter rounds, which the experienced fighter considers gender disparity.
“The sport for women has come a long way, but there’s still progress to be made,” Cameron stated. “I firmly believe in fairness and that includes the option to compete under equal conditions, identical prospects, and identical regard.”
Background of the championship
The fighter was upgraded to title holder when former champion Taylor was named “Champion in Recess” as she took a break from boxing. The boxing organization was preparing for a contract bid on Friday for a bout between the champion and fellow British boxer the challenger.
Prior instance
In the end of last year, fellow boxer Serrano also relinquished her championship after the council refused to allow her to participate in bouts under the equivalent rules as men’s boxing, with extended rounds.
WBC’s position
The council head, Mauricio Sulaimán, had mentioned previously that they would not sanction longer fights in women’s boxing. “Regarding tennis they play fewer sets, for basketball the hoop is lower and the ball is smaller and those are less physical sports. We prioritize the welfare of the fighters,” he commented on his platform.
Existing norm
Most women’s title fights have 10 rounds of shorter duration each, and the British boxer was part of more than two dozen boxers – such as Serrano – who launched a campaign in 2023 to have the option to fight under the same rules as men fighters.
Professional record
The boxer, who maintains a 21-1 professional boxing record, made clear that her protest is more than personal preference, framing it as a struggle for future generations of women fighters. “I’m proud of my accomplishment in becoming a world champion, but it’s moment to make a statement for equality and for the sport’s development,” she added.
Future plans
The athlete is not leaving from the sport completely, however, with her management team her team indicating she aims to chase other championship opportunities and prestigious matches while continuing to demand on participating in three-minute rounds.
