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Chantelle Cameron voluntarily gave up her prestigious boxing title on Friday as a symbolic gesture against the status quo in female boxing, demanding the right to fight in extended rounds similar to male counterparts.

Stand against inequality

The boxer’s move to vacate her world title comes from her clear disagreement with the World Boxing Council’s requirement that female fighters fight in two-minute rounds, which the experienced fighter regards as gender disparity.

“The sport for women has advanced significantly, but there’s still work to be done,” the boxer declared. “I firmly believe in equal treatment and that includes the option to compete under equal conditions, the same chances, and the same recognition.”

Background of the championship

The fighter was upgraded to WBC super-lightweight world champion when Katie Taylor was named “inactive champion” as she stepped away from professional fighting. The boxing organization was planning to hold a financial bid on Friday for a fight between Cameron and other UK fighter the challenger.

Previous precedent

In the end of last year, fellow boxer Serrano also relinquished her WBC title after the organization declined to permit her to compete in fights under the same rule-set as men’s 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 female matches. “For tennis women play fewer sets, regarding basketball the basket is shorter and the size is reduced and those are less physical sports. We prioritize the health and protection of the fighters,” he wrote on social media.

Present practice

The majority of female championship bouts have 10 rounds of reduced time each, and the British boxer was one of over twenty fighters – such as Serrano – who launched a campaign in recently to have the right to fight under the equivalent conditions as men.

Professional record

The athlete, who boasts a 21-1 professional boxing record, made clear that her demonstration goes beyond her own wishes, presenting it as a fight for coming generations of female boxers. “It’s an honor of my accomplishment in attaining a title holder, but it’s moment to make a statement for what’s right and for the boxing’s progression,” she added.

Next steps

Cameron is not leaving from boxing altogether, however, with her promoters her promotion company saying she plans to pursue other championship opportunities and prestigious matches while maintaining her insistence on competing in three-minute rounds.