Callum Smith to defend WBO 'interim' light-heavyweight title against David Morrell with purse bids cancelled
Callum Smith's long-mooted showdown with David Morrell looks set for the new year after both camps finally agreed a deal for the two light-heavyweight contenders to square-off inside the ring.
The WBO ordered Smith to make a mandatory defence of his 'interim' title against the American back in July after he secured a narrow split-decision victory over Imam Khataev.
However, despite a willingness to strike a deal, Smith's promoters Matchroom and Morrell's backers Warrior Boxing had been unable to find common ground.
That was until Thursday however, when news broke that an agreement had been struck, prompting the WBO to cancel their proposed purse bids for Thursday 4th December.
"The World Boxing Organisation (WBO) hereby announces that it has received written confirmation from Matchroom Boxing and TGB Promotions/Warriors Boxing indicating that the parties have reached an agreement regarding the WBO Light Heavyweight Championship bout between Callum Smith and David Morrell," a statement announced.
"Accordingly the purse bid scheduled for today at the WBO Main Offices is terminated effective immediately.
"At the appropriate time, the parties will formally announce the fight date, venue and promoter of record."
Former world champion Smith last fought in February, beating domestic rival Joshua Buatsi in an enthralling 12-round war.
The pair locked-horns in a fight of the year contender on the stacked Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol 2 undercard, with the Liverpudlian inflicting a first career defeat upon Buatsi.
Morrell meanwhile bounced back into world title contention with his summer points success over Kataev having previously succumbed to a points defeat at the hands of 'Mexican Monster' David Benavidez - an opponent Smith had hoped to face last month.
However, that opportunity eventually went to Anthony Yarde, although the Briton came up short in his quest for world championship gold by virtue of seventh round stoppage.
It's anticipated that further details surrounding Smith vs Morrell, including a confirmed date and venue, will be announced in the next two weeks.
