The cancellation of the bout between David Morrell and Callum Smith in the United Kingdom altered the immediate plans of the cuban contender, but within his team the approach remains clear: stay ready and capitalize on a bigger opportunity.
According to veteran promoter Luis De Cubas Sr., who spoke to this outlet following the Armando Martinez Jr vs Neslan Machado card promoted by Warriors Boxing on Sunday, July 12 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino; the team was already set to travel with planned stops in Manchester and Liverpool when news broke of Smith’s rib injury, forcing the fight to be called off.
“We were ready to leave when we heard the news,” De Cubas said.
The matchup carried significant stakes, as it was scheduled for the interim light heavyweight world title held by Smith, while also serving as a de facto eliminator that would have positioned the winner for a future shot at unified champion Dmitry Bivol.
Rather than slowing momentum, the team has opted to remain in camp under the guidance of Ismael Salas, maintaining both rhythm and focus. De Cubas emphasized that Morrell’s camp has responded with composure to the setback. “Everything happens for a reason,” he stated, while hinting that new options are already being explored. “We are looking for something that will come soon, and it’s going to be very good.”
De Cubas also pointed to noticeable technical improvements, particularly in Morrell’s jab, describing a fighter who is evolving into “a different fighter” within the 175-pound division.
Beyond the gym, De Cubas referenced the team’s industry connections, including ties to influential figures such as Turki Alalshikh, whose involvement has been instrumental in staging major boxing events in recent times. “He has been a great thing for boxing,” De Cubas added, suggesting those relationships could play a role in Morrell’s next move.
For now, no opponent has been officially confirmed. Still, the message from the camp remains consistent: be prepared for an imminent opportunity of greater magnitude. In a sport where last-minute changes are common, Morrell appears well positioned to turn this setback into a meaningful step forward in the light heavyweight ranks.
