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The super-lightweight champion voluntarily gave up her WBC super-lightweight title on this week as a symbolic gesture against current regulations in the sport for women, insisting on the option to fight in extended rounds similar to male boxers.

Demonstration against disparity

Cameron’s decision to give up her title stems from her clear disagreement with the World Boxing Council’s mandate that women boxers compete in shorter rounds, which the veteran boxer views as unequal treatment.

“The sport for women has made great strides, but there’s still work to be done,” Cameron stated. “I firmly believe in fairness and that includes the option to have identical rules, identical prospects, and equal respect.”

Background of the title

The British boxer was promoted to title holder when Katie Taylor was named “temporary champion” as she paused from professional fighting. The boxing organization was planning to hold a financial bid on Friday for a bout between the champion and fellow British boxer the challenger.

Earlier case

In December 2023, another female fighter also relinquished her belt after the organization declined to permit her to fight in bouts under the identical regulations as men’s boxing, with longer duration fights.

Council’s stance

The WBC president, Sulaimán, had stated previously that they would not approve 12 three-minute rounds in women’s boxing. “In tennis they play fewer sets, in basketball the hoop is lower and the ball is smaller and those are less physical sports. We support the health and protection of the boxers,” he stated on X.

Existing norm

The majority of female championship bouts have multiple rounds of reduced time each, and Cameron was one of more than two dozen boxers – such as Serrano – who started a movement in last year to have the option to fight under the same rules as male boxers.

Career statistics

The boxer, who boasts a 21-1 professional boxing record, emphasized that her protest extends beyond her own wishes, framing it as a battle for future generations of female boxers. “It’s an honor of my success in attaining a title holder, but it’s moment to make a statement for justice and for the sport’s development,” she added.

Next steps

Cameron is not stepping away from boxing altogether, however, with her promoters MVP stating she aims to chase alternative belt prospects and prestigious matches while maintaining her insistence on competing in extended rounds.