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Chantelle Cameron chose to relinquish her WBC super-lightweight title on this week as a symbolic gesture against existing rules in the sport for women, calling for the right to battle in three-minute rounds like male boxers.

Protest against inequality

Her choice to vacate her world title stems from her strong opposition with the World Boxing Council’s rule that female fighters participate in reduced rounds, which the 34-year-old regards as unequal treatment.

“The sport for women has come a long way, but there’s still room for improvement,” the boxer declared. “I’ve always believed in fairness and that includes the right to compete under equal conditions, the same chances, and the same recognition.”

History of the championship

The British boxer was upgraded to world championship status when the previous title holder was categorized “temporary champion” as she took a break from boxing. The World Boxing Council was planning to hold a contract bid on Friday for a fight between Cameron and fellow British boxer the challenger.

Prior instance

In the end of last year, another female fighter similarly gave up her championship after the council declined to permit her to participate in bouts under the same rule-set as male boxing, with longer duration fights.

Organization’s viewpoint

The council head, Mauricio Sulaimán, had mentioned before that they would not authorize extended rounds in women’s bouts. “Regarding tennis female players compete 3 sets, regarding basketball the rim is reduced and the ball smaller and those are less physical sports. We prioritize the welfare of the athletes,” he wrote on X.

Current standard

Typically women’s championship matches have multiple rounds of two minutes each each, and the fighter was one of numerous athletes – such as Serrano – who initiated an effort in last year to have the right to compete under the same rules as men.

Fighting history

Cameron, who maintains a impressive fight record, stated clearly that her demonstration extends beyond personal preference, describing it as a fight for the next wave of women fighters. “I feel proud of my achievement in becoming a WBC champion, but it’s time to take a stand for justice and for the boxing’s progression,” she concluded.

Next steps

The fighter is not retiring from the sport altogether, however, with her promoters her team saying she intends to seek different title chances and high-profile fights while continuing to demand on participating in three-minute rounds.