The fight ordered by the WBO will be the main attraction of the DAZN gala and will have sedate consequences. The winner is expected to be in position to take a shot at unified champion Dmitry Bivol, who is preparing to return from back surgery. For Smith, this opportunity has been the goal all along, but Morrell stands in the way as a high-risk younger opponent with little commercial upside.
Morrell stands between Smith and Bivol’s chances
Some fans began to suspect that the fight was being held up by Smith or his promoter Eddie Hearn, given the lack of urgency to finalize terms. Morrell doesn’t bring the financial appeal of a fight with Bivol, but he does bring something more menacing. At 27 years senior, with the knockout power and confidence built against elite opposition, he represents the type of opponent who can derail long-term plans.
Smith (30-2, 22 KO) last fought in February 2025, defeating Joshua Buatsi in a hard-fought fight that elevated his standing at 175 pounds and strengthened his claim to a world title. This victory put him directly in line, but Morrell’s order complicated his path forward.
Morrell (11-1, 9 KO) remained dynamic and continued to test his skills against sedate opponents. He lost a contest decision to David Benavidez in a high-profile fight, then came back to defeat Imam Khataev by split decision in July. These fights confirmed his ability to compete with top fighters, despite his constrained professional experience.
This fight has been discussed for months without a resolution, fueling speculation as to whether it will be delayed indefinitely. Now that the deal is finalized, Smith must defend his interim status against one of the division’s most threatening emerging fighters.
The risk is obvious. The victory puts Smith in line for the biggest opportunity available in the airy heavyweight division. Defeat completely removes him from this position. Morrell may not offer the same financial reward as Bivol, but he offers something just as significant. He offers a chance to take Smith’s place.
Tomek Galm is a boxing journalist covering the global fight landscape since 2014, specializing in heavyweight analysis, industry trends and fighter psychology.