The fighter Cameron gives up WBC belt in demonstration against rules for women boxers
The British fighter voluntarily gave up her prestigious boxing title on Friday as a symbolic gesture against existing rules in the sport for women, demanding the opportunity to compete in three-minute rounds like male counterparts.
Protest against inequality
The boxer’s move to relinquish her championship belt comes from her strong opposition with the WBC’s rule that female fighters participate in shorter rounds, which the experienced fighter considers unequal treatment.
“The sport for women has made great strides, but there’s still work to be done,” the boxer declared. “I firmly believe in fairness and that includes the option to compete under equal conditions, the same chances, and the same recognition.”
Background of the title
The fighter was promoted to world championship status when Katie Taylor was designated “Champion in Recess” as she took a break from boxing. The WBC was preparing for a financial bid on that day for a bout between Cameron and fellow British boxer her potential opponent.
Earlier case
In December 2023, Amanda Serrano also relinquished her WBC title after the council would not authorize her to compete in matches under the equivalent rules as fighters’ boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.
Council’s stance
The organization’s leader, Sulaimán, had mentioned before that they would not authorize extended rounds in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis women play fewer sets, in basketball the rim is reduced and the size is reduced and those are less physical sports. We support the health and protection of the fighters,” he commented on social media.
Existing norm
Typically women’s championship matches have ten rounds of reduced time each, and the British boxer was one of over twenty fighters – including Serrano – who started a movement in 2023 to have the option to compete under the same rules as male boxers.
Fighting history
Cameron, who maintains a strong career statistics, stated clearly that her demonstration is more than personal preference, framing it as a fight for coming generations of women fighters. “It’s an honor of my achievement in becoming a WBC champion, but it’s time to take a stand for justice and for the future of the sport,” she concluded.
Future plans
The athlete is not leaving from professional fighting completely, however, with her management team her team stating she aims to chase different title chances and prestigious matches while maintaining her insistence on participating in extended rounds.
