Chantelle Cameron Vacates WBC Title in Stand for Gender Equality

Cameron Vacates WBC Title in Protest Over Unequal Boxing Rules

British boxer Chantelle Cameron has vacated her WBC light-welterweight world title in a bold stand against gender inequality in boxing, calling out the rule disparity between male and female title fights.

In women’s professional boxing, world title fights are traditionally contested over 10 two-minute rounds, whereas male boxers compete over 12 three-minute rounds.

Cameron, 34, said she could no longer hold the title in good conscience while being denied the opportunity to fight under equal terms.

“I’ve always believed in equality, and that includes the choice to fight equal rounds, equal opportunities, and equal respect,” she stated.

“It’s time to take a stand for what’s right and for the future of the sport.”

A Champion On and Off the Canvas

Cameron boasts an impressive professional record of 21 wins in 22 fights, having previously held the title of undisputed light-welterweight world champion. She also captured a world title at lightweight and famously handed Ireland’s Katie Taylor her first professional defeat in May 2023.

Their highly anticipated rematch saw Taylor reclaim her titles, with a trilogy bout originally mandated. However, Taylor has since chosen to take a break from boxing, and Cameron was subsequently elevated to full WBC champion from interim status.

Despite the promotion, Cameron opted to relinquish the belt to highlight the inequity in fight conditions for women.

Support from Across the Boxing Community

The decision has sparked renewed calls for change in the sport, echoing sentiments shared by other female champions, including Amanda Serrano, who in 2023 led a campaign for 12×3 minute rounds in women’s title bouts.

“Chantelle has never backed down from a challenge, inside or outside the ring,” said Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions (MVP).

“Her decision underscores her integrity and leadership. We stand firmly behind her.”

MVP confirmed that Cameron plans to return to the ring in early 2026, actively seeking championship bouts where she will maintain her right to fight three-minute rounds.

A Growing Movement in Women’s Boxing

Cameron’s protest is not an isolated one—it’s part of a growing movement to redefine the standards of equality in the sport. Many believe that women’s boxing has evolved in quality, viewership, and commercial value, and it is now time for regulations to reflect that progress.

The WBC, however, has previously cited safety concerns and medical studies as justification for maintaining shorter rounds in women’s boxing, a point of contention among elite fighters.

What’s Next for Cameron?

Despite stepping away from her world title, Cameron’s focus is set on marquee matchups, potentially in 2026, where she can compete on her own terms. She continues to be a vocal leader in the fight for gender parity in combat sports, with fans and fellow fighters rallying behind her message.