The order had been expected following Bivol’s dominant unanimous decision victory over Michael Eifert in May, where he retained his WBA, IBF and WBO titles. Shortly afterward, the Russian underwent elbow surgery, but his team indicated the injury would not keep him out long-term.
Smith has been waiting patiently for his mandatory opportunity after capturing the WBO interim title earlier this year. The former super middleweight world champion has rebuilt his standing at 175 pounds and now finds himself in line for another shot at a full world championship.
The order also creates another major decision for Bivol.
Re: WBO Light Heavyweight (175 lbs.) Division
The WBO World Championship Committee has officially ordered the commencement of negotiations for the WBO Light Heavyweight Championship between WBO World Champion Dmitrii Bivol & Interim World Champion Callum Smith.
Consistent with…
— Gustavo Olivieri, Esq. (@OlivieriLaw) July 6, 2026
Before the WBO ruling, many expected the unified champion to pursue a trilogy bout with Artur Beterbiev or eventually target a showdown with WBC champion David Benavidez. Instead, the mandatory obligation means Bivol must either reach terms with Smith, vacate the WBO title, or risk losing the belt if he chooses another opponent.
If negotiations fail over the next 20 days, the WBO will schedule a purse bid to determine promotional rights for the bout. The winner would satisfy one of Bivol’s mandatory obligations while giving Smith his first opportunity to fight for a world title at light heavyweight since moving up from super middleweight.
Robert Segal is a boxing journalist at Boxing News 24 with more than a decade of experience covering fight news, previews, and analysis. Known for his straightforward reporting and ringside perspective, he delivers authoritative coverage of champions, contenders, and emerging talent worldwide.