The fighter Cameron gives up WBC title in demonstration against rules for women boxers
The British fighter decided to vacate her world championship belt on Friday as a symbolic gesture against the status quo in women’s boxing, demanding the right to fight in three-minute rounds matching male boxers.
Stand against disparity
Cameron’s decision to give up her title stems from her clear disagreement with the boxing governing body’s requirement that women fight in shorter rounds, which the veteran boxer views as unequal treatment.
“Female boxing has made great strides, but there’s still work to be done,” she announced. “I’ve always believed in equality and that includes the choice to fight equal rounds, equal opportunities, and the same recognition.”
Background of the championship
Cameron was upgraded to world championship status when the previous title holder was named “temporary champion” as she took a break from professional fighting. The WBC was planning to hold a contract bid on Friday for a match between Cameron and compatriot her potential opponent.
Previous precedent
In late 2023, fellow boxer Serrano likewise vacated her WBC title after the organization refused to allow her to fight in fights under the equivalent rules as fighters’ boxing, with longer duration fights.
Organization’s viewpoint
The WBC president, Mauricio Sulaimán, had declared before that they would not sanction longer fights in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis female players compete fewer sets, for basketball the hoop is lower and the size is reduced and those are not contact sports. We prioritize the health and protection of the athletes,” he wrote on social media.
Current standard
Most women’s title fights have multiple rounds of reduced time each, and the fighter was part of more than two dozen boxers – including Serrano – who started a movement in last year to have the option to fight under the equivalent conditions as male boxers.
Career statistics
The athlete, who holds a 21-1 professional boxing record, stated clearly that her protest extends beyond her own wishes, describing it as a struggle for the next wave of female boxers. “I feel proud of my success in becoming a world champion, but it’s moment to make a statement for equality and for the boxing’s progression,” she concluded.
Future plans
The athlete is not retiring from the sport entirely, however, with her promoters MVP saying she aims to chase other championship opportunities and prestigious matches while maintaining her insistence on competing in extended rounds.
