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The super-lightweight champion voluntarily gave up her world championship belt on this week as a symbolic gesture against existing rules in women’s boxing, insisting on the right to compete in longer rounds matching men fighters.

Demonstration against inequality

Her choice to vacate her title stems from her firm stance with the boxing governing body’s rule that women boxers participate 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,” she announced. “I’ve always believed in equal treatment and that includes the choice to compete under equal conditions, the same chances, and the same recognition.”

History of the championship

Cameron was promoted to world championship status when the previous title holder was designated “inactive champion” as she took a break from professional fighting. The WBC was set to have a contract bid on Friday for a match between Cameron and other UK fighter the challenger.

Prior instance

In the end of last year, fellow boxer Serrano also relinquished her championship after the council refused to allow her to compete in fights under the same rule-set as men’s boxing, with longer duration fights.

Organization’s viewpoint

The organization’s leader, Mauricio Sulaimán, had stated previously that they would not approve 12 three-minute rounds in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis they play fewer sets, in basketball the hoop is lower and the ball is smaller and those are not contact sports. We prioritize the health and protection of the boxers,” he stated on his platform.

Current standard

Most women’s title fights have ten rounds of shorter duration each, and the British boxer was part of more than two dozen boxers – including Serrano – who launched a campaign in 2023 to have the choice to fight under the equivalent conditions as men.

Professional record

Cameron, who boasts a 21-1 professional boxing record, made clear that her demonstration is more than her own wishes, describing it as a fight for coming generations of female athletes. “I’m proud of my achievement in attaining a WBC champion, but it’s moment to make a statement for justice and for the boxing’s progression,” she concluded.

Future plans

The athlete is not leaving from boxing altogether, however, with her promoters her promotion company indicating she intends to seek different title chances and marquee bouts while continuing to demand on participating in three-minute rounds.