The super-lightweight champion voluntarily gave up her prestigious boxing title on this week as a form of protest against current regulations in women’s boxing, calling for the option to battle in three-minute rounds like male boxers.
Cameron’s decision to give up her world title stems from her strong opposition with the boxing governing body’s mandate that women fight in shorter rounds, which the veteran boxer regards as unequal treatment.
“Women’s boxing has made great strides, but there’s still progress to be made,” she announced. “I firmly believe in equal treatment and that includes the option to compete under equal conditions, equal opportunities, and identical regard.”
The British boxer was elevated to title holder when the previous title holder was designated “Champion in Recess” as she paused from the sport. The boxing organization was planning to hold a purse bid on Friday for a match between the champion and other UK fighter her potential opponent.
In December 2023, fellow boxer Serrano similarly gave up her WBC title after the organization refused to allow her to fight in bouts under the same rule-set as men’s boxing, with extended rounds.
The WBC president, Sulaimán, had mentioned previously that they would not approve 12 three-minute rounds in women’s boxing. “For tennis female players compete 3 sets, in basketball the rim is reduced and the ball is smaller and those are not contact sports. We prioritize the health and protection of the boxers,” he commented on his platform.
Most women’s title fights have 10 rounds of reduced time each, and the fighter was among over twenty fighters – like Serrano – who initiated an effort in last year to have the option to compete under the identical regulations as men.
The athlete, who holds a 21-1 professional boxing record, made clear that her protest extends beyond personal preference, presenting it as a struggle for future generations of female athletes. “It’s an honor of my achievement in earning a title holder, but it’s right to protest for justice and for the boxing’s progression,” she added.
Cameron is not retiring from the sport completely, however, with her promoters her promotion company indicating she intends to seek alternative belt prospects and prestigious matches while maintaining her insistence on competing in longer duration fights.
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