British boxer Cameron vacates World Boxing Council title in demonstration against women’s boxing rules
The super-lightweight champion chose to relinquish her WBC super-lightweight title on Friday as a symbolic gesture against current regulations in women’s boxing, calling for the option to battle in extended rounds like male boxers.
Protest against unequal treatment
Her choice to relinquish her championship belt stems from her firm stance with the WBC’s requirement that women boxers compete in two-minute rounds, which the veteran boxer considers unequal treatment.
“The sport for women has come a long way, but there’s still work to be done,” the boxer declared. “I firmly believe in equality and that includes the choice to have identical rules, equal opportunities, and identical regard.”
Background of the belt
The fighter was promoted to title holder when former champion Taylor was designated “Champion in Recess” as she took a break from the sport. The WBC was planning to hold a purse bid on recently for a bout between the champion and other UK fighter Sandy Ryan.
Previous precedent
In the end of last year, another female fighter similarly gave up her belt after the organization would not authorize her to fight in bouts under the same rule-set as fighters’ boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.
Organization’s viewpoint
The WBC president, the president, had mentioned previously that they would not authorize longer fights in female matches. “Regarding tennis female players compete 3 sets, for basketball the rim is reduced and the size is reduced and those are non-contact activities. We support the health and protection of the fighters,” he wrote on his platform.
Existing norm
Typically women’s championship matches have ten rounds of two minutes each each, and the British boxer was among numerous athletes – like Serrano – who started a movement in last year to have the option to compete under the equivalent conditions as men.
Professional record
The athlete, who holds a 21-1 professional boxing record, stated clearly that her demonstration extends beyond individual choice, framing it as a battle for coming generations of female athletes. “I feel proud of my success in attaining a WBC champion, but it’s right to protest for equality and for the sport’s development,” she concluded.
Next steps
The athlete is not leaving from the sport entirely, however, with her representatives her promotion company saying she plans to pursue different title chances and high-profile fights while continuing to demand on competing in longer duration fights.
