The World Boxing Organization (WBO) released an official statement Monday regarding the injury that has sidelined Interim Light Heavyweight Champion Callum Smith, who was scheduled to face David Morrell Jr. on June 18 at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena.
“Matchroom Boxing has formally notified the WBO that Interim Light Heavyweight Champion Callum Smith has sustained an injury that prevents his participation in the scheduled mandatory bout against David Morrell.
Accordingly, the WBO will grant Team Smith a 10-day period to submit a certified medical report detailing diagnosis, prognosis, recovery period, and expected return to competition.
In its statement, the WBO outlined the steps to be taken and the regulatory implications of the situation:
Pursuant to WBO regulations, Mr. Smith is afforded 180 days from the Bivol–Eifert bout to fulfill his mandatory obligation against Mr. Morrell. Failure to comply within this period will result in the WBO Interim Light Heavyweight title being declared vacant.
The winner of Smith–Morrell MUST face the winner of Bivol–Eifert to terminate the Interim Champion status.
The WBO reserves all rights to issue any further rulings pursuant to our governing rules and regulations. Further updates will be issued as appropriate.”
According to the organization, Smith has 10 days to submit a certified medical report including diagnosis, prognosis, estimated recovery time, and expected return to competition. Additionally, under WBO regulations, the British fighter has up to 180 days from the Bivol–Eifert bout to fulfill his mandatory obligation, or the interim title will be declared vacant.
The fight’s cancellation, just 14 days from the scheduled date, comes as a result of the injury Smith sustained during his training camp. The news reshuffles the card, with Ben Whitaker now set to headline the event.
The WBO statement also makes clear that the winner of the Smith–Morrell bout must face the victor of Bivol–Eifert to conclude the interim champion status, preserving the integrity of the light heavyweight division within the organization.
