Smith–Morrell Agreed, However Nonetheless With out A Date

The situation moved beyond sanctioning mechanics on December 4, when the WBO canceled its scheduled purse bid after Matchroom Boxing and TGB Promotions, working with Warriors Boxing, confirmed that terms had been reached. The WBO’s notice said remaining details would be announced “at the appropriate time.” No follow-up has been issued since.

What makes the delay notable is not the absence of paperwork, but the absence of ownership. No promoter of record has been publicly identified. No broadcaster has been attached. The fight has not been tied to any confirmed event, despite being treated in public comments as effectively done.

Eddie Hearn has referenced the matchup repeatedly since October, including discussion of Saudi Arabia as a possible destination and Riyadh Season as a logical landing spot. Industry chatter has centered on a mid-February card, with February 14 frequently mentioned in unofficial circles. None of that has been confirmed by Matchroom, the WBO, or any Saudi organizers.

Coordination alone does not explain the length of the delay. The fight has already cleared the hardest hurdle. Both sides agreed. The sanctioning body stepped aside. What remains are commercial decisions. Card placement. Broadcast alignment. Financial upside.

Smith turns 36 this year and is coming off a punishing fight with Joshua Buatsi. Morrell, still unbeaten, has been parked without clarity at a moment when momentum typically matters. An interim title bout is supposed to resolve a queue, not extend it.

Smith vs. Morrell is no longer stalled by process. It is being held in reserve.