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Chantelle Cameron chose to relinquish her prestigious boxing title on Friday as a symbolic gesture against existing rules in the sport for women, calling for the opportunity to battle in longer rounds like male counterparts.

Protest against unequal treatment

Her choice to give up her world title comes from her strong opposition with the World Boxing Council’s mandate that women participate in two-minute rounds, which the veteran boxer views as unfair standards.

“Female boxing has come a long way, but there’s still work to be done,” Cameron stated. “I firmly believe in equal treatment and that includes the choice to compete under equal conditions, the same chances, and equal respect.”

Context of the belt

Cameron was elevated to WBC super-lightweight world champion when Katie Taylor was designated “temporary champion” as she stepped away from professional fighting. The boxing organization was set to have a financial bid on that day for a match between the champion and compatriot her potential opponent.

Previous precedent

In the end of last year, another female fighter also relinquished her WBC title after the organization refused to allow her to participate in fights under the identical regulations as fighters’ boxing, with longer duration fights.

Council’s stance

The organization’s leader, the president, had stated previously that they would not approve 12 three-minute rounds in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis they play 3 sets, in basketball the rim is reduced and the ball is smaller and those are less physical sports. We prioritize the welfare of the boxers,” he stated on X.

Existing norm

Typically women’s championship matches have multiple rounds of reduced time each, and Cameron was among more than two dozen boxers – such as Serrano – who initiated an effort in last year to have the option to fight under the same rules as men fighters.

Fighting history

The athlete, who maintains a impressive fight record, made clear that her protest is more than her own wishes, describing it as a struggle for the next wave of women fighters. “I feel proud of my success in earning a WBC champion, but it’s moment to make a statement for what’s right and for the future of the sport,” she continued.

Future plans

The fighter is not leaving from professional fighting completely, however, with her management team her team saying she intends to seek alternative belt prospects and prestigious matches while persisting in her requirement on competing in longer duration fights.