Callum Smith defends title against David Morrell in Liverpool

The two fighters will clash at the M&S Bank Arena on April 18

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Former WBA super middleweight champion Callum Smith will defend his interim WBO light heavyweight title against former two-division WBA 'regular' champion David Morrell in the main event of a Matchroom Boxing event on April 18 at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, England.

Why it matters

This fight represents a significant challenge for both Smith and Morrell as they look to establish themselves in the light heavyweight division. Smith is aiming to become a two-weight world champion, while Morrell is seeking to bounce back from his first professional loss.

The details

Smith (31-2, 22 KOs) claimed the interim WBO light heavyweight title last February with a unanimous decision win over Joshua Buatsi. The 35-year-old Liverpool native is making the first defense of his belt against the 28-year-old Cuban southpaw Morrell (12-1, 9 KOs), who is coming off a split decision victory over Imam Khataev in July 2023 after losing his WBA 'regular' light heavyweight title to David Benavidez in February 2023.

  • The fight will take place on April 18, 2026 at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, England.
  • Smith last fought in February 2026, winning the interim WBO light heavyweight title.
  • Morrell last fought in July 2023, winning a split decision over Imam Khataev.

The players

Callum Smith

A 35-year-old Liverpool native and former WBA super middleweight champion who is defending his interim WBO light heavyweight title.

David Morrell

A 28-year-old Cuban southpaw and former two-division WBA 'regular' champion who is challenging for Smith's interim WBO light heavyweight title.

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What they’re saying

“Fighting back in Liverpool is special for me. This is home – there's nothing like walking out in front of a home crowd that's supported you from the very start. It gives me a real lift, and I plan to give them a big performance.”

— Callum Smith (fightmag.com)

“First, I want to thank God for this opportunity in my career. I'm excited to showcase my talent in front of the great boxing fans in the UK. I'm preparing for an all-out war with Callum Smith on April 18. I'm coming for that belt.”

— David Morrell (fightmag.com)

What’s next

The winner of the Smith-Morrell fight will likely be in line for a shot at the full WBO light heavyweight title.

The takeaway

This fight between two former world champions represents a high-stakes clash as both Smith and Morrell look to establish themselves as a force in the light heavyweight division and potentially earn a shot at the full WBO title.