Dmitry Bivol Faces Decision as WBO Orders Mandatory Title Defence

Posted : 07 July 2026

Dmitry Bivol faces a major decision after being ordered to defend his undisputed light-heavyweight championship against WBO interim champion Callum Smith.

The WBO has instructed both camps to begin negotiations, with the two sides given 20 days to reach an agreement for the mandatory title defence. If no deal is reached, the bout could proceed to a purse bid.

Bivol reclaimed the undisputed light-heavyweight crown in February 2025 by defeating Artur Beterbiev in a highly anticipated rematch. The victory saw him regain the WBA (Super), WBC, IBF, WBO, IBO and Ring Magazine titles while avenging the only defeat of his professional career.

Despite holding every major title at 175 pounds, Bivol now faces a choice between fulfilling his mandatory obligation or pursuing bigger-money fights elsewhere.

Smith represents a credible challenge. The former super middleweight world champion has rebuilt his career at light heavyweight and currently holds the WBO interim title. Known for his disciplined boxing style, powerful jab and solid combination punching, the Liverpool fighter also has the ability to turn fights into physical exchanges when required.

However, Smith has not fought since February 2025, raising questions about ring sharpness. At 36 years old, the long period of inactivity could prove a disadvantage against one of boxing's most technically consistent champions.

On paper, Bivol enters the contest as the clear favourite. His movement, timing and defensive skills have made him one of the sport's most complete fighters, with victories over elite opponents including Beterbiev, Canelo Alvarez and Gilberto Ramirez.

While the Smith fight satisfies the WBO's mandatory requirement, many boxing fans are more interested in seeing Bivol face unbeaten American contender David Benavidez or complete a trilogy with longtime rival Artur Beterbiev. Both contests are expected to generate significantly greater commercial interest and larger purses.

Should Bivol choose to bypass the mandatory defence, he risks being stripped of the WBO title. That would end his reign as the undisputed champion, although it could open the door to more lucrative fights against the division's biggest names.

For now, negotiations with Smith take priority. If an agreement cannot be reached within the WBO's deadline, the sanctioning body is expected to order a purse bid to determine promotional rights.

The coming weeks could shape the future of the light-heavyweight division, with Bivol weighing the value of preserving his undisputed status against the opportunity to secure another career-defining superfight.

Dmitry Bivol Faces Decision as WBO Orders Mandatory Title Defence

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