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Chantelle Cameron decided to vacate her world championship belt on this week as a form of protest against existing rules in female boxing, calling for the right to battle in extended rounds similar to male counterparts.

Demonstration against inequality

Cameron’s decision to vacate her world title originates from her clear disagreement with the World Boxing Council’s rule that women boxers fight in two-minute rounds, which the veteran boxer views as gender disparity.

“The sport for women has made great strides, but there’s still room for improvement,” Cameron stated. “My conviction has always been in equal treatment and that includes the option to compete under equal conditions, equal opportunities, and equal respect.”

History of the title

The fighter was promoted to world championship status when Katie Taylor was designated “temporary champion” as she paused from the sport. The World Boxing Council was preparing for a contract bid on that day for a bout between the champion and fellow British boxer Sandy Ryan.

Prior instance

In December 2023, fellow boxer Serrano likewise vacated her belt after the governing body declined to permit her to fight in fights under the equivalent rules as fighters’ boxing, with longer duration fights.

WBC’s position

The WBC president, Mauricio Sulaimán, had mentioned before that they would not approve extended rounds in women’s boxing. “For tennis female players compete three sets, in basketball the rim is reduced and the ball is smaller and those are less physical sports. We stand by the safety and wellbeing of the athletes,” he commented on X.

Current standard

Typically women’s championship matches have multiple rounds of reduced time each, and the fighter was one of more than two dozen boxers – such as Serrano – who launched a campaign in 2023 to have the right to participate under the same rules as men.

Fighting history

The athlete, who boasts a impressive fight record, made clear that her stand is more than her own wishes, framing it as a fight for the next wave of female athletes. “I’m proud of my success in attaining a world champion, but it’s time to take a stand for what’s right and for the boxing’s progression,” she continued.

Future plans

The fighter is not leaving from boxing altogether, however, with her promoters MVP saying she intends to seek other championship opportunities and prestigious matches while maintaining her insistence on competing in extended rounds.