The boxing world is abuzz with news of two highly anticipated matchups set to electrify arenas later this year. These forthcoming encounters feature top-tier athletes vying for supremacy within their respective weight classes, promising action-packed spectacles for fans. The discussions and negotiations for these bouts are reportedly progressing well, indicating that official announcements could be imminent, much to the excitement of the global boxing community.
One of the eagerly awaited confrontations pits Callum Smith against David Morrell in a light heavyweight clash. Smith, who currently holds an interim title, received a directive earlier this month to defend his championship against Morrell. Morrell recently secured a hard-fought split decision victory over Imam Khataev on July 12th, showcasing his resilience and skill. In contrast, Smith's last appearance in the ring was a thrilling 12-round battle against Joshua Buatsi back in February, which left fans clamoring for his return. Interestingly, Smith had been in discussions to challenge WBC 175lb champion David Benavidez, a fighter who also previously defeated Morrell in February. However, fellow countryman Anthony Yarde ultimately secured that coveted fight, which is scheduled for November 22nd in Saudi Arabia, redirecting Smith's focus towards the encounter with Morrell.
In the junior welterweight category, another significant title fight is materializing between WBC champion Subriel Matias and his mandatory challenger, Dalton Smith. Dalton Smith has patiently awaited his opportunity as the WBC's top-ranked contender for quite some time. He was notably present ringside for a recent title bout involving Matias and then-champion Alberto Puello. Matias emerged victorious from that closely contested fight, and immediately afterward, Riyadh Season/The Ring principal Turki Alalshikh invited Dalton Smith into the ring, signaling that their showdown would be the next order of business.
Eddie Hearn, who promotes both Callum and Dalton Smith, provided an update to reporters on Monday, confirming that negotiations for both high-profile contests are well underway. Hearn indicated ongoing discussions with PBC regarding the Smith-Morrell fight and also stated that the Matias-Dalton Smith deal is nearing finalization. He noted that Callum Smith is keen on the fight with David Morrell, expressing a preference for it to be a full world title unification rather than merely an interim defense, though acknowledging its significance as a compelling matchup. The aim is to swiftly conclude agreements for both Callum Smith versus David Morrell and to receive a definitive confirmation for Subriel Matias against Dalton Smith, bringing these captivating contests closer to fruition for boxing enthusiasts.
As these negotiations advance, the boxing landscape is poised for a series of electrifying events, offering fans the chance to witness elite athletes push their limits in pursuit of championship glory and divisional supremacy. The commitment from promoters and fighters alike points towards a thrilling conclusion to the year's boxing calendar, with these two fights promising to be defining moments in their respective divisions.