The fighter Cameron gives up WBC championship in stand against rules for women boxers
The super-lightweight champion voluntarily gave up her world championship belt on Friday as a form of protest against the status quo in women’s boxing, demanding the right to fight in three-minute rounds matching male boxers.
Stand against disparity
The boxer’s move to give up her title originates from her firm stance with the boxing governing body’s mandate that women boxers participate in shorter rounds, which the experienced fighter considers unfair standards.
“The sport for women has made great strides, but there’s still progress to be made,” she announced. “I firmly believe in fairness and that includes the choice to compete under equal conditions, equal opportunities, and equal respect.”
Background of the title
Cameron was upgraded to world championship status when the previous title holder was designated “inactive champion” as she took a break from the sport. The boxing organization was set to have a financial bid on Friday for a bout between Cameron and fellow British boxer her potential opponent.
Prior instance
In late 2023, fellow boxer Serrano similarly gave up her championship after the organization would not authorize her to compete in bouts under the identical regulations as men’s boxing, with longer duration fights.
Organization’s viewpoint
The organization’s leader, Sulaimán, had stated before that they would not sanction longer fights in female matches. “For tennis female players compete fewer sets, for basketball the rim is reduced and the ball is smaller and those are less physical sports. We prioritize the welfare of the athletes,” he wrote on his platform.
Existing norm
Typically women’s championship matches have 10 rounds of reduced time each, and the fighter was part of numerous athletes – including Serrano – who launched a campaign in 2023 to have the option to compete under the same rules as men.
Fighting history
The boxer, who maintains a 21-1 professional boxing record, stated clearly that her stand extends beyond personal preference, describing it as a battle for the next wave of women fighters. “I’m proud of my achievement in becoming a world champion, but it’s right to protest for justice and for the sport’s development,” she continued.
Future plans
The athlete is not leaving from the sport completely, however, with her management team her team stating she aims to chase different title chances and marquee bouts while maintaining her insistence on competing in three-minute rounds.
