Promoter Eddie Hearn has expressed his openness to the idea of a bout between David Morrell and Callum Smith for the WBO interim light heavyweight title. However, he makes it clear that Morrell’s camp would need to meet their financial demands to make it happen.
It seems, though, that Hearn is cautious about matching up Morrell with Smith. This hesitance might be due to Smith’s recent career boost after his unexpected victory over Joshua Buatsi, a win that many didn’t see coming. Admittingly, Hearn seems concerned about the risk of Morrell potentially derailing Smith’s momentum.
### What’s Morrell Worth?
Beyond financial considerations, Hearn questions the value of pitting Callum Smith, with a record of 31 wins, against Morrell, who stands at 11 wins and one loss. Morrell once held the WBA ‘regular’ 175-pound championship, but what kind of payday is Hearn looking for from Morrell’s team for this fight? That’s not entirely clear.
Smith is currently the WBO mandatory contender for a shot at the undisputed light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol. Hearn suggests that Callum can simply bide his time. Eventually, his turn at a world title—either against Bivol or whoever has the WBO title—will come around.
Back in February, Morrell faced a loss against David Benavidez in a tough 12-round unanimous decision. Despite having the power and athletic ability to potentially win, Morrell’s strategy didn’t fare well against Benavidez’s skill. If Smith were to face Morrell, it’s questionable whether he could withstand the kind of relentless intensity that Morrell unleashed in that fight.
“We discussed the possibility of a Morrell fight,” Hearn told Boxing Social, candidly voicing his reluctance. “From a fan’s perspective, it might sound appealing.”
Such a match could be beneficial for Callum while he awaits his title shot against either Bivol or Artur Beterbiev, following their anticipated trilogy bout. Callum can’t afford to stay idle; a fight with Morrell would keep him active.
“If I’m entirely honest, why risk it? Callum is the interim world champion. He’s mandated for a future bout with Dmitry Bivol,” Hearn opined. “Morrell just suffered a loss to Benavidez and doesn’t bring much else. Morrell is a tough competitor, sure, but the stakes? It’s all about money.”
Hearn continued, “Callum isn’t solely driven by money. He’s looking for world championship gold. However, if Morrell’s camp wants this, they’ll have to put up the cash. Otherwise, we’re content to wait for our championship shot. Hanging out for a match in Liverpool’s on the cards, but Callum’s fine where he is right now.”
Hearn seems content with Smith’s current status, allowing them to exercise patience for the right opportunity.
