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Chantelle Cameron voluntarily gave up her prestigious boxing title on Friday as an act of defiance against the status quo in the sport for women, insisting on the option to compete in three-minute rounds like male counterparts.

Demonstration against inequality

The boxer’s move to give up her title comes from her clear disagreement with the boxing governing body’s rule that women participate in two-minute rounds, which the experienced fighter regards as unfair standards.

“The sport for women has advanced significantly, but there’s still progress to be made,” the boxer declared. “I firmly believe in equal treatment and that includes the option to compete under equal conditions, identical prospects, and equal respect.”

Background of the title

Cameron was elevated to title holder when Katie Taylor was named “Champion in Recess” as she took a break from boxing. The WBC was planning to hold a purse bid on that day for a fight between Cameron and other UK fighter the challenger.

Earlier case

In late 2023, another female fighter similarly gave up her belt after the organization would not authorize her to fight in fights under the identical regulations as men’s boxing, with extended rounds.

Council’s stance

The council head, Mauricio Sulaimán, had declared previously that they would not sanction 12 three-minute rounds in female matches. “In tennis they play 3 sets, for basketball the basket is shorter and the ball smaller and those are not contact sports. We support the welfare of the boxers,” he wrote on his platform.

Current standard

Most women’s title fights have 10 rounds of two minutes each each, and Cameron was among more than two dozen boxers – such as Serrano – who launched a campaign in recently to have the option to participate under the same rules as male boxers.

Professional record

The boxer, who maintains a strong career statistics, made clear that her stand extends beyond individual choice, framing it as a battle for future generations of female boxers. “I’m proud of my accomplishment in becoming a title holder, but it’s right to protest for justice and for the future of the sport,” she concluded.

Coming actions

The athlete is not stepping away from the sport entirely, however, with her management team her team stating she aims to chase other championship opportunities and marquee bouts while persisting in her requirement on participating in longer duration fights.