The interim light-heavyweight champion, Callum Smith, has been formally ordered by the WBO to defend his title against former WBA light-heavyweight champion David Morrell Jr. The battle will be placed up for purse bids after 30 days for both sides to discuss conditions. With the primary titleholders preoccupied, this interim fight promises to shake up the 175-pound category. Here’s all the information you require:
Why the Interim Fight Matters
The WBO’s decision coincides with a lot of activity in the light-heavyweight division. To keep the whole WBO title occupied, current undisputed champion Dmitry Bivol is anticipated to fight Artur Beterbiev in a trilogy. The sanctioning group wants its division to continue operating in the meantime, and they have chosen Callum Smith, the interim titleholder, to do so.
Meet the Fighters
Callum “Mundo” Smith (31‑2, 22 KOs)
Former WBA (Super) and Ring super‑middleweight champion
Moved up to light‑heavyweight, now holds the interim WBO title since defeating Joshua Buatsi in February 2025
Known for his power, durability, strong jab, and seasoned ring savvy
David “The Graduate” Morrell Jr. (12‑1, 9 KOs)
Cuban southpaw and former WBA (Regular) light‑heavyweight titleholder
Stepped up to make a statement with a close, but controversial, decision over Imam Khataev in July 2025
Holds one of boxing’s top undefeated records (save a loss), with a reputation for explosive yet measured aggression
Negotiation Timeline & Stakes
Promoters have 30 days to complete the fight, either by signing a contract or starting a purse bid procedure in which they must submit sealed cash bids, according to the WBO. The boxers are given purse shares and the highest bidder wins if no deal is made.
Smith’s team, under the leadership of Eddie Hearn, needs to plan fast since a strong defense puts him in position to challenge for the complete title when Bivol and Bertbiev finish their trilogy. Smith runs the danger of losing his temporary status if he refuses or delays, which would stop his progress.
What’s at Stake in the Ring
Smith wants to establish reputation in this higher weight class. Smith is a natural at 175 pounds.
Younger and more hungry, Morrell is keen to establish his dominance in the division and regain his title as champion after losing the WBA Regular title.
This should be exciting stylistically, with Morrell’s southpaw placement and raw power matched with Smith’s jab and ring IQ. According to Bad Left Hook of SB Nation, “their styles promise a donnybrook.”
Possible Timeline & Venue
According to BoxingNews24, the WBO is hoping to have this interim championship fight on the Ring 4 show in Riyadh on November 22, 2025. Promoters must act quickly to obtain rights and finish specifics if discussions stop or purse bids are close.
Division Impact & Future Implications
Champion’s ladder: After the undeniable trilogy is over, the victor sets himself up to face Bivol or Beterbiev.
Market value: If Smith prevails, he will remain a strong competitor in the top tier; if Morrell loses, he may become the clear favorite.
Timing concerns: Although interim titles might make title lineages more difficult, in this case they benefit the division by producing new rivals and maintaining the 175-pound ranks.
Final Thoughts
At a time when the light-heavyweight division is in danger of stagnating, the WBO’s mandate of Callum Smith vs. David Morrell Jr. provides direction and momentum. In the final 30 days, boxing fans should keep an eye on:
Will negotiations between Morrell’s camp and Hearn’s side happen quickly?
Or will there be an open bid battle due to financial terms?
Will the fight appear on this fall’s main Riyadh undercard?
In any case, this fight promises to be a high-stakes, visually stunning fight—and a big step toward a future fight for the undisputed championship. Keep checking back as schedules are finalized, training starts, as boxing prepares for another 175-pound spectacle.