Callum Smith Gets Dmitry Bivol While Fans Await Trilogy

Matchroom has confirmed that unified light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol will defend his titles against Callum Smith at the UMMC Arena in Yekaterinburg, Russia, on December 12. Smith earned the mandatory opportunity after defeating Joshua Buatsi in February 2025. Boxing News 24/7 argues that while the matchup fulfills a legitimate title defense, it delays the highly anticipated trilogy fight between Bivol and rival Artur Beterbiev.

The publication highlights that Smith faces a tough challenge following an extended layoff of nearly two years, alongside previous losses to elite opponents Canelo Alvarez and Beterbiev. Meanwhile, Bivol enters the bout with his own questions after returning from back surgery, though Boxing News 24/7 maintains the champion remains a heavy favorite against Smith.