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The super-lightweight champion chose to relinquish her world championship belt on this week as an act of defiance against current regulations in female boxing, demanding the right to compete in longer rounds like men fighters.

Stand against unequal treatment

Cameron’s decision to give up her world title originates from her firm stance with the WBC’s requirement that women boxers participate in two-minute rounds, which the 34-year-old regards as gender disparity.

“Female boxing has advanced significantly, but there’s still work to be done,” she announced. “I’ve always believed in equality and that includes the right to have identical rules, identical prospects, and equal respect.”

Context of the belt

The fighter was promoted to world championship status when the previous title holder was designated “Champion in Recess” as she paused from professional fighting. The World Boxing Council was planning to hold a contract bid on recently for a bout between the champion and other UK fighter her potential opponent.

Earlier case

In December 2023, another female fighter similarly gave up her championship after the governing body would not authorize her to participate in matches under the equivalent rules as men’s boxing, with extended rounds.

Council’s stance

The council head, Sulaimán, had stated earlier in 2023 that they would not sanction extended rounds in women’s boxing. “Regarding tennis they play fewer sets, regarding basketball the basket is shorter and the size is reduced and those are not contact sports. We support the safety and wellbeing of the boxers,” he stated on his platform.

Current standard

Most women’s title fights have multiple rounds of shorter duration each, and the British boxer was among numerous athletes – like Serrano – who launched a campaign in last year to have the option to fight under the equivalent conditions as male boxers.

Professional record

Cameron, who maintains a strong career statistics, stated clearly that her protest is more than personal preference, describing it as a struggle for coming generations of female boxers. “It’s an honor of my success in attaining a WBC champion, but it’s right to protest for what’s right and for the boxing’s progression,” she added.

Next steps

Cameron is not leaving from professional fighting completely, however, with her management team her promotion company stating she aims to chase alternative belt prospects and high-profile fights while maintaining her insistence on fighting in extended rounds.