Chantelle Cameron gives up WBC belt in protest against rules for women boxers

Chantelle Cameron voluntarily gave up her prestigious boxing title on Friday as a form of protest against current regulations in women’s boxing, demanding the option to compete in three-minute rounds matching men fighters.

Stand against disparity

Her choice to give up her title originates from her clear disagreement with the WBC’s mandate that women participate in two-minute rounds, which the veteran boxer regards as unequal treatment.

“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 option to have identical rules, identical prospects, and equal respect.”

History of the belt

The British boxer was upgraded to world championship status when former champion Taylor was designated “temporary champion” as she took a break from professional fighting. The boxing organization was planning to hold a contract bid on that day for a match between the champion and compatriot Sandy Ryan.

Prior instance

In late 2023, Amanda Serrano similarly gave up her belt after the organization declined to permit her to fight in matches under the same rule-set as fighters’ boxing, with extended rounds.

WBC’s position

The council head, Sulaimán, had stated before that they would not authorize extended rounds in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis female players compete three sets, regarding basketball the basket is shorter and the size is reduced and those are non-contact activities. We support the welfare of the athletes,” he stated on social media.

Current standard

Typically women’s championship matches have ten rounds of reduced time each, and the British boxer was part of more than two dozen boxers – like Serrano – who initiated an effort in recently to have the right to fight under the identical regulations as men fighters.

Career statistics

Cameron, who maintains a strong career statistics, made clear that her stand extends beyond personal preference, framing it as a battle for future generations of female athletes. “I feel proud of my accomplishment in becoming a title holder, but it’s moment to make a statement for justice and for the sport’s development,” she added.

Next steps

The athlete is not retiring from the sport altogether, however, with her representatives her team stating she aims to chase alternative belt prospects and prestigious matches while maintaining her insistence on competing in extended rounds.