British boxer Cameron gives up WBC championship in demonstration against women’s boxing rules
The British fighter voluntarily gave up her WBC super-lightweight title on recently as a symbolic gesture against existing rules in the sport for women, insisting on the opportunity to battle in longer rounds matching male counterparts.
Stand against disparity
Cameron’s decision to relinquish her title comes from her strong opposition with the World Boxing Council’s mandate that women participate in two-minute rounds, which the experienced fighter considers gender disparity.
“Female boxing has made great strides, but there’s still progress to be made,” Cameron stated. “My conviction has always been in equal treatment and that includes the right to have identical rules, identical prospects, and equal respect.”
History of the belt
Cameron was upgraded to world championship status when Katie Taylor was designated “Champion in Recess” as she stepped away from professional fighting. The WBC was preparing for a financial bid on Friday for a bout between Cameron and compatriot Sandy Ryan.
Previous precedent
In late 2023, Amanda Serrano also relinquished her championship after the organization declined to permit her to participate in fights under the identical regulations as men’s boxing, with longer duration fights.
Council’s stance
The council head, the president, had mentioned previously that they would not authorize 12 three-minute rounds in women’s bouts. “For tennis they play fewer sets, regarding basketball the rim is reduced and the ball is smaller and those are less physical sports. We prioritize the health and protection of the boxers,” he stated on X.
Existing norm
The majority of female championship bouts have multiple rounds of reduced time each, and the British boxer was part of over twenty fighters – like Serrano – who started a movement in 2023 to have the choice to fight under the equivalent conditions as men.
Career statistics
The boxer, who holds a strong career statistics, emphasized that her demonstration goes beyond personal preference, framing it as a fight for coming generations of female athletes. “I feel proud of my success in earning a WBC champion, but it’s right to protest for equality and for the future of the sport,” she added.
Coming actions
Cameron is not leaving from the sport altogether, however, with her promoters MVP stating she intends to seek other championship opportunities and prestigious matches while maintaining her insistence on fighting in longer duration fights.
