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The super-lightweight champion voluntarily gave up her world championship belt on recently as a symbolic gesture against the status quo in the sport for women, calling for the opportunity to fight in three-minute rounds similar to men fighters.

Demonstration against inequality

Her choice to give up her world title originates from her strong opposition with the WBC’s mandate that women fight in shorter rounds, which the veteran boxer views as unequal treatment.

“The sport for women has advanced significantly, but there’s still work to be done,” the boxer declared. “I’ve always believed in fairness and that includes the right to compete under equal conditions, equal opportunities, and equal respect.”

Context of the championship

Cameron was elevated to title holder when former champion Taylor was designated “temporary champion” as she stepped away from professional fighting. The World Boxing Council was preparing for a financial bid on that day for a fight between Cameron and fellow British boxer her potential opponent.

Prior instance

In the end of last year, another female fighter similarly gave up her championship after the organization refused to allow her to fight in fights under the identical regulations as men’s boxing, with longer duration fights.

WBC’s position

The council head, Mauricio Sulaimán, had stated earlier in 2023 that they would not authorize extended rounds in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis female players compete 3 sets, for basketball the basket is shorter and the ball smaller and those are non-contact activities. We stand by the welfare of the athletes,” he commented on social media.

Existing norm

Typically women’s championship matches have 10 rounds of reduced time each, and the fighter was one of numerous athletes – such as Serrano – who launched a campaign in 2023 to have the choice to compete under the equivalent conditions as male boxers.

Career statistics

The boxer, who maintains a 21-1 professional boxing record, emphasized that her protest goes beyond her own wishes, framing it as a battle for the next wave of women fighters. “It’s an honor of my accomplishment in earning a title holder, but it’s right to protest for equality and for the sport’s development,” she concluded.

Next steps

The fighter is not leaving from boxing entirely, however, with her management team her promotion company indicating she aims to chase different title chances and prestigious matches while persisting in her requirement on competing in three-minute rounds.