World Boxing Organization Orders Bivol to Fight Smith

The World Boxing Organization (WBO) has mandated a championship bout between its reigning light heavyweight king, Dmitry Bivol, and interim titleholder Callum Smith. The organization announced the order, setting the stage for a significant clash in the division.

Bivol, a dominant force in the light heavyweight division, holds multiple world titles, including WBA (Super), IBF, and IBO. He last fought on May 30, defeating Michael Eifert by unanimous decision. Bivol had been scheduled for elbow surgery on July 4.

The WBO's championship committee has formally initiated negotiations for the mandatory fight. Both Bivol and Smith have been given a 20-day window to reach an agreement on the terms of their championship contest. The WBO has stipulated that if either boxer cannot participate for any reason, including injury, the WBO light heavyweight title could be declared vacant.

This ordered bout follows a previous encounter between Bivol and Smith in the amateur ranks in February 2012, where Bivol emerged victorious. In their professional careers, the 35-year-old Bivol boasts a record of 25 wins and 1 loss, while the 36-year-old Smith has a record of 31 wins and 2 losses.

“

The WBO Championship Committee, pursuant to the regulations on holding championship fights, hereby orders the immediate commencement of negotiations for the mandatory championship fight for the WBO light heavyweight title between the reigning world champion Dmitry Bivol and the interim world champion Callum Smith.