Dmitry Bivol’s next world title defence is heading to purse bids after talks with former super-middleweight champion Callum Smith failed to produce an agreement.
The WBO ordered Bivol to defend his light-heavyweight title against interim champion Smith, giving the two sides a 20-day negotiation period before later granting extensions. With no deal reached, the sanctioning body has now confirmed that a purse bid will take place on August 27 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
“Please be advised that, as the parties [Bivol and Smith] were unable to reach terms within the negotiation period established by the WBO, the matter will now proceed to Purse Bid proceedings, as previously advised. The Purse Bid will be conducted on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at the WBO Main Offices in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and will be live-streamed through the WBO’s official digital platforms.
“All applicable terms and conditions, including the respective purse split, will be formally announced through the WBO’s official Purse Bid Notice to be issued later today.”
Smith earned his position by defeating Joshua Buatsi last year to claim the interim WBO belt, handing his fellow Brit the first defeat of his professional career in a fight of the year contender. The former super-middleweight world champion has since remained next in line for a shot at the full title.
Bivol, meanwhile, returned from a lengthy spell of inactivity in May to comfortably outpoint IBF mandatory challenger Michael Eifert. Most felt that he would then pursue a trilogy against Artur Beterbiev, with the pair currently level at one win apiece following their two meetings, even if it did mean dropping the WBO belt.
Those plans have not materialised, and the Russian technician will look to keep hold of all three of his belts against Liverpool’s Smith. Both men are represented by Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing.
