In a move that underscores her commitment to equality in the sport, Amanda Serrano, a dominant force in women’s boxing, has relinquished her WBC featherweight title. This decision, announced on December 5, 2023, is a poignant reflection of her dedication to advancing women’s boxing. Serrano has been an influential figure in the sport, achieving unprecedented milestones across seven weight divisions.
Serrano’s stance comes in response to the WBC’s refusal to align with her vision for gender parity in boxing, specifically their resistance to adopting three-minute rounds or 12-round bouts for women. This contrasts with the traditional format of ten, two-minute rounds in women’s title fights, a format under which Serrano has triumphed throughout her career, including her historic full featherweight unification victory over Erika Cruz.
This Puerto Rican southpaw’s quest for change was evident in her October 27 clash against interim WBO titleholder Danila Ramos. Serrano, backed by Most Valuable Promotions, insisted on a twelve, three-minute round format. The bout proceeded with her lineal, WBA, IBF, and WBO titles at stake, but without the WBC’s sanction, as they maintained their long-standing policy against such formats for women, citing medical reasons.
Serrano’s commitment to reform extends beyond her own career. As an undisputed champion and a trailblazer for female boxers, she seeks to create better opportunities for upcoming female fighters. Her achievements include headlining Madison Square Garden, being the first female boxer to earn seven figures from a fight and sponsorships, and being the first undisputed female champion to fight 12x3 minute rounds.
Looking ahead, Serrano plans for all her future matches to adhere to the 12x3 minute round format, a decision that has implications for potential fights, including a title consolidation bout against Skye Nicolson. Nicolson, a 2020 Olympic quarterfinalist for Australia, has expressed willingness to conform to any terms set by the WBC, including their interim title defense. Serrano’s next fight, which aims to take place in the first quarter of 2024, will feature her remaining IBF, WBA, and WBO titles and the lineal championship.
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