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The British fighter voluntarily gave up her WBC super-lightweight title on Friday as a form of protest against the status quo in women’s boxing, insisting on the opportunity to fight in three-minute rounds similar to men fighters.

Stand against unequal treatment

Cameron’s decision to vacate her title originates from her clear disagreement with the WBC’s rule that women fight in two-minute rounds, which the experienced fighter regards as gender disparity.

“Female boxing has advanced significantly, but there’s still work to be done,” she announced. “I’ve always believed in equal treatment and that includes the option to compete under equal conditions, the same chances, and identical regard.”

Background of the championship

The fighter was promoted to world championship status when Katie Taylor was categorized “temporary champion” as she stepped away from professional fighting. The World Boxing Council was planning to hold a purse bid on Friday for a bout between the champion and compatriot Sandy Ryan.

Prior instance

In December 2023, another female fighter also relinquished her championship after the governing body refused to allow her to compete in bouts under the equivalent rules as male boxing, with extended rounds.

WBC’s position

The WBC president, Mauricio Sulaimán, had mentioned earlier in 2023 that they would not authorize extended rounds in women’s boxing. “Regarding tennis female players compete 3 sets, in basketball the hoop is lower and the ball is smaller and those are non-contact activities. We support the safety and wellbeing of the fighters,” he commented on X.

Present practice

Typically women’s championship matches have ten rounds of reduced time each, and Cameron was among numerous athletes – including Serrano – who launched a campaign in 2023 to have the right to compete under the same rules as men fighters.

Fighting history

Cameron, who boasts a impressive fight record, stated clearly that her stand is more than personal preference, describing it as a battle for future generations of women fighters. “I’m proud of my achievement in attaining a WBC champion, but it’s right to protest for what’s right and for the boxing’s progression,” she continued.

Future plans

Cameron is not retiring from the sport entirely, however, with her representatives MVP indicating she plans to pursue different title chances and prestigious matches while maintaining her insistence on fighting in longer duration fights.