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The British fighter decided to vacate her prestigious boxing title on Friday as a form of protest against existing rules in the sport for women, demanding the option to compete in three-minute rounds like men fighters.

Demonstration against unequal treatment

Her choice to vacate her championship belt stems from her strong opposition with the boxing governing body’s requirement that female fighters participate in shorter rounds, which the 34-year-old considers unfair standards.

“Women’s boxing has advanced significantly, but there’s still work to be done,” the boxer declared. “My conviction has always been in equality and that includes the option to compete under equal conditions, the same chances, and equal respect.”

Context of the championship

The fighter was promoted to title holder when the previous title holder was categorized “inactive champion” as she took a break from the sport. The World Boxing Council was preparing for a contract bid on that day for a fight between the champion and compatriot Sandy Ryan.

Previous precedent

In the end of last year, fellow boxer Serrano likewise vacated her WBC title after the council would not authorize her to participate in matches under the equivalent rules as fighters’ boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.

WBC’s position

The WBC president, Sulaimán, had declared before that they would not sanction extended rounds in women’s boxing. “Regarding tennis they play fewer sets, regarding basketball the rim is reduced and the size is reduced and those are less physical sports. We support the welfare of the boxers,” he wrote on his platform.

Present practice

Most women’s title fights have 10 rounds of shorter duration each, and Cameron was part of over twenty fighters – including Serrano – who initiated an effort in 2023 to have the choice to compete under the same rules as men.

Fighting history

The boxer, who maintains a impressive fight record, stated clearly that her protest extends beyond her own wishes, presenting it as a battle for coming generations of women fighters. “I feel proud of my accomplishment in earning a WBC champion, but it’s right to protest for justice and for the boxing’s progression,” she continued.

Coming actions

The athlete is not retiring from professional fighting completely, however, with her promoters her promotion company stating she intends to seek alternative belt prospects and marquee bouts while maintaining her insistence on fighting in extended rounds.