Amanda Serrano gives up WBC Title

Featherweight world champion Amanda Serrano has made a bold statement by giving up her WBC title following the WBC’s refusal to sanction 12 three-minute round contests. In a groundbreaking move, Serrano, 35, successfully defended her WBA, WBO, and IBF titles against Danila Ramos in a match that featured 12 rounds, each lasting three minutes. This departure from the traditional 10 two-minute rounds for women’s bouts faced opposition from the WBC, citing “health and safety” concerns.

Taking to Instagram, Serrano announced her decision to relinquish the WBC title, attributing it to the organization’s resistance to evolving the sport for equality. She also expressed gratitude to other sanctioning bodies that have embraced changes promoting equality. She said: “The WBC has refused to evolve the sport for equality, so I am relinquishing their title. Thank you to the sanctioning bodies who have evolved for equality. If you want to face me in the ring, you have a choice. I’ve made mine.”

This move by Serrano underscores a broader push within women’s boxing to allow three-minute rounds. More than 20 current and former women boxers, including Serrano, had earlier signed a statement advocating for the ability to fight three-minute rounds. Advocates argue that more extended rounds not only enhance the spectacle but also increase the likelihood of knockouts, providing a more exciting viewing experience for fans.

Serrano’s decision to forego the WBC title signifies a commitment to principles of equality and fairness in the sport. Her remarkable achievements, such as becoming the first female boxer to win titles in seven divisions and headlining Madison Square Garden, underscore her influential position in women’s boxing.

The move also comes at a time when discussions about evolving the format of women’s boxing are gaining traction. While the traditional norms have been challenged, the sport is witnessing a shift toward greater inclusivity and recognition of women’s capacity to compete at the highest level.

Serrano’s stand in favor of three-minute rounds is not just a personal choice but a symbolic gesture that could contribute to transforming the landscape of women’s boxing.