Smith-Morrell agreed, but still without a date

The situation went beyond the mechanics of sanctions on December 4, when the WBO canceled its scheduled purse bid after Matchroom Boxing and TGB Promotions, along with Warriors Boxing, confirmed that terms had been met. The WBO’s notice said that the remaining details would be released “at the appropriate time”. No follow-up has been issued since.

What makes the delay noteworthy is not the absence of paperwork, but the absence of ownership. No promoter of record has been publicly identified. No broadcaster is attached. The fight has not been linked to any confirmed event, although it has been treated as effective in public commentary.

Eddie Hearn has repeatedly referred to the game since October, including discussing Saudi Arabia as a possible destination and Riyadh Season as a logical landing spot. Industry chatter has centered on a mid-February card, with February 14 frequently mentioned in unofficial circles. None of this has been confirmed by Matchroom, the WBO or any Saudi organizers.

Coordination alone does not explain the length of the delay. The fight has already cleared the most difficult hurdle. Both sides agreed. The sanctioning body stepped aside. What remains are commercial decisions. Card placement. Broadcast alignment. Financial upside.

Smith turns 36 this year and is coming off a penalty shootout with Joshua Buatsi. Morrell, still undefeated, was parked without clarity at a moment when momentum typically matters. An interim title fight is supposed to resolve a streak, not extend it.

Smith v. Morrell is no longer stalled by process. It is held in reserve.