Amanda Serrano, a trailblazer in boxing and the first Puerto Rican to be crowned an undisputed world champion, has recently made headlines by surrendering her WBC featherweight title. This bold move came as a response to the WBC’s refusal to endorse matches with 12 three-minute rounds, a format she has been advocating for.
At 35, Serrano has maintained her WBA, WBO, and IBF titles, coming off a unanimous decision victory over Danila Ramos in October. The standard format for women’s matches has been 10 rounds of two minutes each, a structure Serrano challenges in pursuit of parity with male boxers.
Serrano expressed her dissatisfaction on Instagram, stating, “The WBC remains stagnant on the issue of equality in our sport, leading me to forgo their title. I’m grateful to the bodies that support equality. Those who wish to face me in the ring now have a choice, as do I.”
The debate over three-minute rounds in women’s boxing intensifies with Serrano’s stance. The WBC, headquartered in Mexico City, declined to sanction longer rounds for women, citing health and safety concerns. This decision came despite Serrano’s match being the first since 2007 where women competed for as long as men in a title bout.
Serrano’s achievements are unparalleled. She’s not only the only Puerto Rican to achieve undisputed champion status but also the only female boxer to claim titles across seven divisions. Her milestones include headlining Madison Square Garden alongside Katie Taylor, earning seven-figure paydays from fights and sponsorships, and being the first female undisputed champion to compete in 12×3 minute rounds.
“If a sanctioning body won’t allow me and my peers the choice to compete equally with men, I’ll no longer compete for them,” she declared.
Earlier this year, a coalition of over 20 current and former female boxers, including Serrano, campaigned for the right to fight three-minute rounds. Proponents argue that longer rounds enhance the spectacle of the sport, increasing the likelihood of knockouts.
In her recent bout, Serrano proved her mettle by dominating all 12 rounds against Ramos, showcasing her skill and endurance in a full 36-minute match.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Amanda Serrano WBC
Why did Amanda Serrano vacate her WBC title?
Amanda Serrano chose to vacate her WBC featherweight title in protest against the organization’s refusal to sanction 12 three-minute round contests in women’s boxing, advocating for equality with male boxers.
What titles does Amanda Serrano still hold?
Despite relinquishing her WBC title, Amanda Serrano still retains her WBA, WBO, and IBF titles, which she defended successfully against Danila Ramos in October.
What is the standard format for women’s boxing matches?
Traditionally, women’s boxing matches are contested over 10 two-minute rounds, which is different from the men’s format that typically features three-minute rounds.
Has Amanda Serrano made history in boxing?
Yes, Amanda Serrano has made significant history in boxing. She is the first Puerto Rican undisputed world champion, the only female boxer to win titles in seven divisions, and the first to headline Madison Square Garden and earn seven figures from a fight.
What are the arguments for three-minute rounds in women’s boxing?
Advocates for three-minute rounds in women’s boxing, including Serrano, argue that it increases the likelihood of knockouts, enhancing the spectacle and parity with men’s boxing. Serrano and other female boxers believe this change will evolve the sport for equality.
More about Amanda Serrano WBC
- Amanda Serrano’s Career Achievements
- Women’s Boxing Formats
- History of Boxing in Puerto Rico
- WBC’s Stance on Women’s Boxing Rounds
- Gender Equality in Sports
4 comments
amanda is a true legend, so proud of her! She’s not just fighting in the ring but for all women in the sport.
wow, Serrano’s really making a stand for equality in boxing, it’s about time someone did! Wonder how the WBC will respond…
not sure if 3 min rounds are the best for women’s health though? has anyone actually looked into this properly?
this is historic, seriously, first since 2007 women fight as long as men for a title, that’s huge. Serrano’s a trailblazer for sure.