The fighter Cameron gives up World Boxing Council championship in demonstration against female boxing regulations
The super-lightweight champion decided to vacate her prestigious boxing title on Friday as an act of defiance against current regulations in female boxing, demanding the option to fight in extended rounds like male counterparts.
Protest against inequality
Her choice to relinquish her championship belt comes from her clear disagreement with the World Boxing Council’s mandate that female fighters fight in shorter rounds, which the veteran boxer regards as gender disparity.
“Female boxing has advanced significantly, but there’s still progress to be made,” she announced. “My conviction has always been in fairness and that includes the option to fight equal rounds, equal opportunities, and the same recognition.”
Context of the title
Cameron was elevated to world championship status when Katie Taylor was named “inactive champion” as she paused from boxing. The World Boxing Council was preparing for a purse bid on Friday for a fight between Cameron and fellow British boxer the challenger.
Earlier case
In the end of last year, Amanda Serrano also relinquished her championship after the organization would not authorize her to fight in bouts under the equivalent rules as male boxing, with extended rounds.
WBC’s position
The council head, Mauricio Sulaimán, had stated earlier in 2023 that they would not authorize extended rounds in women’s boxing. “Regarding tennis women play fewer sets, in basketball the hoop is lower and the size is reduced and those are less physical sports. We prioritize the safety and wellbeing of the fighters,” he commented on X.
Current standard
Most women’s title fights have multiple rounds of shorter duration each, and Cameron was among over twenty fighters – like Serrano – who initiated an effort in last year to have the choice to compete under the identical regulations as male boxers.
Fighting history
The boxer, who boasts a impressive fight record, stated clearly that her demonstration extends beyond personal preference, describing it as a battle for future generations of women fighters. “It’s an honor of my achievement in earning a WBC champion, but it’s time to take a stand for justice and for the sport’s development,” she continued.
Future plans
The athlete is not stepping away from the sport entirely, however, with her representatives her promotion company stating she plans to pursue other championship opportunities and high-profile fights while maintaining her insistence on competing in extended rounds.