The fighter Cameron gives up World Boxing Council belt in demonstration against female boxing regulations
The British fighter voluntarily gave up her WBC super-lightweight title on this week as a form of protest against the status quo in the sport for women, insisting on the option to battle in extended rounds similar to men fighters.
Demonstration against unequal treatment
Her choice to give up her world title originates from her clear disagreement with the WBC’s rule that women compete in two-minute rounds, which the veteran boxer views as unequal treatment.
“The sport for women has made great strides, but there’s still room for improvement,” the boxer declared. “My conviction has always been in fairness and that includes the right to fight equal rounds, equal opportunities, and the same recognition.”
Context of the title
Cameron was elevated to WBC super-lightweight world champion when Katie Taylor was categorized “Champion in Recess” as she stepped away from boxing. The WBC was set to have a financial bid on that day for a bout between Cameron and other UK fighter the challenger.
Previous precedent
In the end of last year, Amanda Serrano likewise vacated her belt after the governing body declined to permit her to participate in fights under the equivalent rules as male boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.
Organization’s viewpoint
The council head, Mauricio Sulaimán, had declared before that they would not sanction extended rounds in women’s boxing. “Regarding tennis they play three sets, for basketball the hoop is lower and the ball is smaller and those are less physical sports. We stand by the welfare of the fighters,” he commented on X.
Current standard
Typically women’s championship matches have ten rounds of reduced time each, and the British boxer was among over twenty fighters – like Serrano – who initiated an effort in last year to have the option to fight under the same rules as men.
Professional record
The boxer, who maintains a 21-1 professional boxing record, emphasized that her protest extends beyond personal preference, describing it as a struggle for future generations of female athletes. “I’m proud of my success in becoming a title holder, but it’s right to protest for what’s right and for the future of the sport,” she concluded.
Coming actions
Cameron is not leaving from boxing altogether, however, with her management team her team indicating she intends to seek other championship opportunities and high-profile fights while maintaining her insistence on participating in extended rounds.
