Monaco joins race to host Bivol-Smith title fight

Monaco has emerged as a potential host for the upcoming light heavyweight title defense between Dmitry Bivol and Callum Smith. This adds a third option to the negotiation process, alongside the United Kingdom and Russia.

Matchroom Boxing CEO Frank Smith confirmed that the promoter is evaluating several venues for the unified championship bout, which involves Bivol’s IBF, WBA, and WBO titles. If the fight is held in the United Kingdom, Liverpool is considered a likely destination to support Callum Smith. A fight in Russia would favor Bivol, while Monaco offers a neutral resort setting, though it may lack the gate revenue potential of a UK venue.

The World Boxing Organization (WBO) has initiated negotiations to consolidate the division and eliminate the interim title. If an agreement is not reached between the promoters, a purse bid is scheduled for August 27, 2026.