The fight, ordered by the WBO, will headline a DAZN program and has huge implications. The winner is expected to move into position for a shot at unified champion Dmitry Bivol, who is preparing to return after recovering from back surgery. For Smith, that opportunity has been the target all along, but Morrell stands in the way as a younger, high-risk opponent with little commercial upside.
Morrell stands between Smith and Bivol opportunity
Some fans began to suspect the fight was being called off, either by Smith or his promoter, Eddie Hearn, given the lack of urgency around finalizing terms. Morrell doesn’t bring the financial appeal of a Bivol fight, but he does bring something more threatening. At 27, with knockout power and confidence built against elite opposition, he represents the kind of opponent who can derail long-term plans.
Smith (30-2, 22 KOs) last fought in February 2025, defeating Joshua Buatsi in a hard-fought fight that elevated his ranking to 175 pounds and solidified his claim to a world title opportunity. That victory put him directly in line, but the Morrell order complicated the way forward.
Morrell (11-1, 9 KOs) remained active and continued to test himself against serious opposition. He lost a competitive decision to David Benavidez in a high-profile bout, then bounced back to defeat Imam Khataev by split decision in July. Those fights confirmed his ability to compete with top contenders despite his limited professional experience.
This match has been discussed without resolution for months, fueling speculation as to whether it would be postponed indefinitely. Now that it’s settled, Smith must defend his interim status against one of the division’s most dangerous up-and-coming fighters.
The risk is obvious. A win puts Smith in line for the biggest opportunity available at light heavyweight. A loss removes him from that position entirely. Morrell may not offer the same financial reward as Bivol, but it offers something just as meaningful. He offers the chance to take Smith’s place.
