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The super-lightweight champion chose to relinquish her world championship belt on recently as a form of protest against existing rules in the sport for women, demanding the option to compete in longer rounds similar to male boxers.

Demonstration against inequality

Cameron’s decision to vacate her championship belt stems from her clear disagreement with the boxing governing body’s rule that female fighters participate in reduced rounds, which the veteran boxer considers unfair standards.

“The sport for women has advanced significantly, but there’s still room for improvement,” the boxer declared. “My conviction has always been in fairness and that includes the right to fight equal rounds, equal opportunities, and the same recognition.”

Background of the championship

The fighter was elevated to world championship status when former champion Taylor was named “Champion in Recess” as she took a break from boxing. The boxing organization was planning to hold a contract bid on recently for a bout between the champion and compatriot Sandy Ryan.

Previous precedent

In late 2023, Amanda Serrano also relinquished her championship after the council declined to permit her to compete in fights under the identical regulations as men’s boxing, with extended rounds.

WBC’s position

The organization’s leader, Mauricio Sulaimán, had stated previously that they would not sanction extended rounds in female matches. “For tennis they play fewer sets, regarding basketball the basket is shorter and the size is reduced and those are non-contact activities. We stand by 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 part of more than two dozen boxers – including Serrano – who launched a campaign in last year to have the right to fight under the equivalent conditions as men.

Fighting history

The boxer, who maintains a 21-1 professional boxing record, emphasized that her protest goes beyond personal preference, framing it as a battle for coming generations of female athletes. “I feel proud of my accomplishment in attaining a WBC champion, but it’s time to take a stand for equality and for the boxing’s progression,” she continued.

Coming actions

The athlete is not retiring from professional fighting completely, however, with her representatives MVP stating she intends to seek other championship opportunities and marquee bouts while persisting in her requirement on participating in three-minute rounds.