🔗 Share this article

The super-lightweight champion chose to relinquish her world championship belt on Friday as an act of defiance against existing rules in female boxing, calling for the option to compete in extended rounds matching male counterparts.

Protest against inequality

Cameron’s decision to give up her title comes from her firm stance with the WBC’s rule that women boxers compete in two-minute rounds, which the experienced fighter regards as unfair standards.

“The sport for women has made great strides, but there’s still work to be done,” Cameron stated. “I’ve always believed in fairness and that includes the choice to fight equal rounds, the same chances, and the same recognition.”

History of the championship

The fighter was elevated to title holder when Katie Taylor was named “inactive champion” as she paused from professional fighting. The boxing organization was planning to hold a contract bid on that day for a bout between the champion and fellow British boxer her potential opponent.

Previous precedent

In late 2023, fellow boxer Serrano likewise vacated her WBC title after the organization declined to permit her to fight in bouts under the equivalent rules as male boxing, with extended rounds.

Organization’s viewpoint

The organization’s leader, Mauricio Sulaimán, had stated earlier in 2023 that they would not authorize 12 three-minute rounds in female matches. “Regarding tennis they play fewer sets, in basketball the basket is shorter and the ball smaller and those are less physical sports. We prioritize the welfare of the boxers,” he wrote on X.

Present practice

The majority of female championship bouts have multiple rounds of two minutes each each, and the fighter was among over twenty fighters – like Serrano – who launched a campaign in last year to have the choice to fight under the equivalent conditions as men fighters.

Professional record

The boxer, who holds a impressive fight record, made clear that her demonstration is more than her own wishes, framing it as a fight for future generations of women fighters. “It’s an honor of my success in earning a title holder, but it’s right to protest for justice and for the sport’s development,” she concluded.

Coming actions

Cameron is not retiring from professional fighting altogether, however, with her management team her team saying she aims to chase different title chances and high-profile fights while persisting in her requirement on participating in extended rounds.