Achieving the utmost excellence in your field often entails making choices that may not necessarily gain you widespread popularity.
From 2020 to 2022, Chantelle Cameron proved herself as a force to be reckoned with in her field by winning five back-to-back world title fights. This impressive streak ultimately led her to become the undisputed female super-lightweight champion. Adriana Dos Santos Araujo, Melissa Hernandez, Mary McGee, Victoria Noella Bustos, and Jessica McCaskill were no match for Cameron, whose unmatched intensity, unwavering determination, and superior skillset earned her the title of the best in her division by a significant margin. She truly embodied the nickname “Il Capo.”
Cameron desired to have one name added to her accomplishments: Katie Taylor. The highly anticipated showdown took place in May 2023 in Dublin, where a supportive crowd hailed the return of the Irish legend, expecting her to claim victory over her English adversary and become the undisputed champion in a new weight division. Unfortunately, it didn’t go as planned. Cameron elevated her performance to new heights and flawlessly countered all of Taylor’s challenges on that pivotal night at the 3Arena, solidifying it as a defining moment in her career.
Taylor utilized a rematch clause, enabling her to bring the champion back to the Irish capital. In this thrilling battle, she succeeded in equalizing their rivalry at 1-1, triumphantly claiming all the belts that Cameron never imagined losing.
Cameron then made two decisions which she believes will greatly advance and improve her career. One was unsurprising – parting ways with Matchroom in May – the other – leaving trainer Jamie Moore and his right hand man Nigel Travis was a shock to many. Cameron chose to be ruthless and prioritise herself and while she admitted to Boxing News it didn’t reflect well on her she made it clear there are two sides to every story.
She explained, “When I departed from Jamie Moore, I faced significant criticism and opposition.”
“But people don’t know the ins and outs. The thing is, I was actually going to leave after the [second Taylor] fight regardless if I won or not. I knew that I needed something new and I was getting sick of Manchester (where she trained). I knew that I wasn’t the same and not enjoying boxing anymore because I achieved what I wanted to achieve and it was a case of where do I go from here?”
“It felt like I wasn’t learning. I’m a good boxer, but you can always keep learning. I felt like I lost my spark. But during my second fight camp – it looks like I’m making excuses, but there’s no excuses at all – I knew, my family knew, everyone around me was saying, I think after this it’s time for a change because I just wasn’t the same. I wasn’t enjoying it as much. Everyone needs change.”
She added that it was an extremely difficult decision.
“Everyone was in my head saying, I think you should look elsewhere for a new coach. And obviously, I had a very good relationship with Jamie and Nigel. It was about loyalty to them. It was like everyone around me was saying, do you want to be friends with your coaches and not make the most out of your career and look at your future? Or do you want to be professional and do the best thing for your career?”
She declared that it is impossible to be friends with everyone.
“It is pleasant to have a healthy relationship, however, when my career reached a point of stagnation or lack of progress, I had to prioritize making a business-oriented decision. Despite the immense sadness it brought, I can confidently say that I have no regrets.”
“It was undeniably harsh, appearing unfavorable. However, considering it was my livelihood, it was an immense, monumental choice. Ultimately, it was the correct path for me and I would unquestionably make the same decision once more.”
Under the guidance of Grant Smith, who has assembled a group of skilled athletes and champions, Cameron has shifted her training to the Steel City Gym. After signing with Queensberry Promotions in May, she will make her debut on Saturday night (July 20) in a WBC Interim super-lightweight title fight against Elhem Mekhaled from France. Cameron views this opportunity as a new beginning and praises her time spent honing her skills alongside Smith in Sheffield.
“It has been a truly distinctive experience, one that I thoroughly enjoy. The personalized one-on-one training approach suits me exceptionally well as I appreciate the opportunity to learn and correct any potential flaws. Training with Grant Smith has undoubtedly been enhanced by the individualized attention, and his perfectionism aligns with my preferences, reminiscent of my amateur coach.”
I must say, I’ve had a fantastic time and being in the gym with such talented fighters has been incredibly beneficial. It has ignited a newfound passion for boxing and has made me realize the importance of professionalism and the drive that my fellow athletes possess. It has truly inspired me to fully commit and take this sport seriously.
Cameron’s professional trajectory has experienced a setback following her loss to Taylor, and the missed opportunity for a third match against her rival has left a sour taste in her mouth. Feelings of anger and frustration have settled in. Although the initial rage has subsided, her ultimate goal remains unchanged, and the 33-year-old will not find complete satisfaction until she concludes a significantly crucial chapter in her career.
I consistently affirm that I focus solely on what is directly in front of me. I repeatedly express this sentiment, yet when it concerns Katie Taylor, I emphasize to everyone without a doubt that the sole reason the trilogy didn’t occur was due to her.
The victory wasn’t clear-cut; it was solely on her conditions. I desire a rematch, yet she refuses to ever engage in it.
Cameron struggled to cope with the initial setback in her career. Her worst nightmare had materialized, but she eventually came to the realization that one failure does not signify the end of everything.
She stated that she no longer feels the pressure since she no longer has an undefeated record.
“I no longer have any fears as it has vanished completely. My mindset has undergone a transformation, as I used to harbor some anger. Now, I strongly believe that I have a greater purpose to fulfill – to demonstrate my superiority as the top 140-pounder. I aim to captivate and engage everyone’s attention, prompting discussions about my skills, and ensuring they are aware of my comeback for the belts.”
This is bad news for her next opponent, as Mekhaled, a well-trained 33-year-old, has only suffered defeats against top-tier opponents like Delfine Persoon and Alyica Baumgardner. Cameron, on the other hand, has patiently waited for eight months to step back into the ring, enduring a rollercoaster ride of excitement and disappointment over the past 14 months. However, come Saturday night, she is determined to unleash her fury upon Mekhaled.
Cameron stated that due to all the frustration, one would witness a demon in there.
“I am entering the arena with the intention of making an immense impact. It has been quite a while since I felt the need to do so, as my efforts were going unnoticed regardless of my accomplishments. However, with a fresh promotion and a new team in my corner, I have undergone a significant transformation. My objective is to make a resounding statement and alert the 140 division that I am determined to claim those championship belts.”
