The fighter Cameron gives up WBC belt in protest against rules for women boxers
The British fighter decided to vacate her world championship belt on this week as a symbolic gesture against the status quo in the sport for women, calling for the option to fight in three-minute rounds like male boxers.
Stand against disparity
Cameron’s decision to relinquish her title comes from her strong opposition with the World Boxing Council’s mandate that women boxers participate in reduced rounds, which the experienced fighter regards as gender disparity.
“The sport for women has advanced significantly, but there’s still progress to be made,” Cameron stated. “I’ve always believed in fairness and that includes the choice to have identical rules, the same chances, and identical regard.”
History of the championship
The fighter was promoted to WBC super-lightweight world champion when former champion Taylor was categorized “inactive champion” as she paused from the sport. The WBC was set to have a contract bid on recently for a bout between the champion and other UK fighter Sandy Ryan.
Prior instance
In late 2023, Amanda Serrano also relinquished her belt after the organization refused to allow her to fight in fights under the same rule-set as fighters’ boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.
WBC’s position
The council head, Sulaimán, had mentioned earlier in 2023 that they would not sanction longer fights in women’s boxing. “In tennis they play 3 sets, in basketball the rim is reduced and the size is reduced and those are less physical sports. We support the welfare of the boxers,” he wrote on social media.
Existing norm
The majority of female championship bouts have ten rounds of two minutes each each, and Cameron was one of numerous athletes – like Serrano – who initiated an effort in recently to have the right to compete under the identical regulations as men.
Fighting history
The athlete, who maintains a 21-1 professional boxing record, emphasized that her protest extends beyond individual choice, presenting it as a battle for coming generations of female athletes. “I’m proud of my accomplishment in attaining a title holder, but it’s moment to make a statement for what’s right and for the boxing’s progression,” she concluded.
Next steps
The fighter is not retiring from professional fighting altogether, however, with her management team MVP saying she intends to seek other championship opportunities and high-profile fights while continuing to demand on fighting in extended rounds.