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Chantelle Cameron chose to relinquish her WBC super-lightweight title on Friday as a symbolic gesture against current regulations in female boxing, demanding the right to compete in three-minute rounds like men fighters.

Demonstration against disparity

Her choice to give up her championship belt stems from her clear disagreement with the boxing governing body’s requirement that women boxers participate in shorter rounds, which the veteran boxer regards as unequal treatment.

“Women’s boxing has made great strides, but there’s still room for improvement,” she announced. “I firmly believe in fairness and that includes the choice to fight equal rounds, identical prospects, and the same recognition.”

History of the belt

The fighter was elevated to title holder when Katie Taylor was designated “Champion in Recess” as she took a break from boxing. The WBC was set to have a financial bid on recently for a fight between the champion and other UK fighter her potential opponent.

Earlier case

In late 2023, Amanda Serrano also relinquished her WBC title after the governing body refused to allow her to fight in fights under the identical regulations as male boxing, with extended rounds.

WBC’s position

The WBC president, Sulaimán, had declared previously that they would not sanction longer fights in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis they play three sets, for basketball the basket is shorter and the size is reduced and those are non-contact activities. We support the safety and wellbeing of the boxers,” he stated on X.

Present practice

Typically women’s championship matches have multiple rounds of two minutes each each, and Cameron was part of over twenty fighters – including Serrano – who launched a campaign in last year to have the option to participate under the same rules as men fighters.

Career statistics

Cameron, who maintains a strong career statistics, made clear that her protest goes beyond individual choice, describing it as a fight for the next wave of women fighters. “I’m proud of my achievement in earning a title holder, but it’s time to take a stand for what’s right and for the future of the sport,” she added.

Future plans

The fighter is not retiring from professional fighting completely, however, with her representatives MVP stating she plans to pursue alternative belt prospects and marquee bouts while continuing to demand on fighting in extended rounds.