British boxer Chantelle Cameron has relinquished her WBC super-lightweight title in protest over the governing body’s refusal to allow women to fight three-minute rounds. The decision marks a bold stand for equality in professional boxing, as Cameron pushes for female fighters to have the same opportunities and conditions as their male counterparts.
Cameron, 34, made the announcement after voicing her frustration with the World Boxing Council’s longstanding rule that women’s bouts consist of two-minute rounds instead of three. She argued that the policy represents unequal treatment and undermines the progress women’s boxing has made in recent years.
“Women’s boxing has come a long way, but there’s still progress to be made,” Cameron said. “I’ve always believed in equality and that includes the choice to fight equal rounds, equal opportunities, and equal respect.”
Cameron had been elevated to WBC super-lightweight world champion status after Katie Taylor was designated “Champion in Recess” during her break from the sport. A purse bid was expected for Cameron to face fellow Briton Sandy Ryan, but the decision to vacate her title effectively halts those plans.
Her move echoes a similar stand taken by Amanda Serrano in 2023, when the Puerto Rican star also gave up her WBC title after the organization refused to sanction 12 three-minute rounds in women’s championship fights. The WBC has consistently defended its stance on safety grounds, citing biological differences and the need to protect female athletes.
Despite the governing body’s position, Cameron and a growing number of fighters continue to call for change. More than two dozen professional boxers have backed the campaign to allow women the choice to compete under the same conditions as men, arguing that they train just as hard and should be granted the same respect inside the ring.
Cameron, who holds a professional record of 21 wins and one loss, emphasized that her decision is not a retreat from boxing but a step toward fairness. Her promoters confirmed that she plans to pursue other championship opportunities and high-profile fights that recognize her right to compete in three-minute rounds.
“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved as a WBC champion,” Cameron stated. “But it’s time to stand up for what’s right and for the future of women’s boxing.”
