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The super-lightweight champion decided to vacate her WBC super-lightweight title on Friday as a form of protest against current regulations in female boxing, demanding the opportunity to battle in extended rounds similar to men fighters.

Demonstration against unequal treatment

Cameron’s decision to vacate her world title comes from her firm stance with the WBC’s rule that female fighters fight in reduced rounds, which the 34-year-old views as unfair standards.

“Female boxing has made great strides, but there’s still room for improvement,” Cameron stated. “My conviction has always been in equality and that includes the choice to fight equal rounds, the same chances, and the same recognition.”

Background of the title

Cameron was elevated to world championship status when former champion Taylor was designated “Champion in Recess” as she stepped away from professional fighting. The WBC was planning to hold a purse bid on that day for a fight between the champion and other UK fighter the challenger.

Previous precedent

In late 2023, fellow boxer Serrano likewise vacated her belt after the council declined to permit her to compete in fights under the same rule-set as men’s boxing, with longer duration fights.

WBC’s position

The council head, Sulaimán, had stated previously that they would not approve extended rounds in women’s boxing. “Regarding tennis female players compete fewer sets, in basketball the hoop is lower and the ball smaller and those are not contact sports. We stand by the safety and wellbeing of the boxers,” he wrote on X.

Present practice

Typically women’s championship matches have multiple rounds of two minutes each each, and Cameron was one of more than two dozen boxers – including Serrano – who launched a campaign in last year to have the right to participate under the identical regulations as men.

Professional record

The athlete, who boasts a impressive fight record, stated clearly that her stand is more than individual choice, framing it as a battle for coming generations of women fighters. “It’s an honor of my achievement in attaining a WBC champion, but it’s moment to make a statement for what’s right and for the sport’s development,” she continued.

Next steps

Cameron is not stepping away from professional fighting entirely, however, with her promoters her team indicating she intends to seek alternative belt prospects and marquee bouts while continuing to demand on participating in longer duration fights.