British boxer Cameron vacates World Boxing Council title in demonstration against female boxing regulations
The British fighter voluntarily gave up her WBC super-lightweight title on Friday as a symbolic gesture against existing rules in female boxing, calling for the option to fight in longer rounds like male counterparts.
Demonstration against inequality
Cameron’s decision to relinquish her world title stems from her firm stance with the WBC’s requirement that women boxers compete in two-minute rounds, which the 34-year-old regards as unequal treatment.
“The sport for women has come a long way, but there’s still room for improvement,” Cameron stated. “My conviction has always been in fairness and that includes the option to compete under equal conditions, the same chances, and the same recognition.”
Background of the belt
The fighter was elevated to WBC super-lightweight world champion when the previous title holder was named “Champion in Recess” as she stepped away from boxing. The WBC was set to have a financial bid on Friday for a match between the champion and compatriot her potential opponent.
Previous precedent
In December 2023, fellow boxer Serrano likewise vacated her championship after the council refused to allow her to fight in fights under the same rule-set as fighters’ boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.
Council’s stance
The WBC president, Mauricio Sulaimán, had mentioned before that they would not approve longer fights in female matches. “For tennis women play three sets, for basketball the basket is shorter and the ball is smaller and those are less physical sports. We prioritize the safety and wellbeing of the athletes,” he wrote on social media.
Existing norm
Typically women’s championship matches have 10 rounds of shorter duration each, and the British boxer was one of numerous athletes – such as Serrano – who started a movement in recently to have the right to participate under the equivalent conditions as men.
Fighting history
The athlete, who boasts a strong career statistics, stated clearly that her demonstration goes beyond her own wishes, framing it as a battle for future generations of female boxers. “I feel proud of my accomplishment in becoming a WBC champion, but it’s right to protest for equality and for the future of the sport,” she continued.
Future plans
Cameron is not retiring from professional fighting entirely, however, with her representatives her team saying she plans to pursue other championship opportunities and high-profile fights while maintaining her insistence on fighting in longer duration fights.
