“I think more likely it will be in Russia. Dmitry is a big name, a pound-for-pound star. There’s a lot of interest to bring him back to Russia. Callum is happy to travel; he’s done it before,” said Hearn via EverythingBoxing on X.
Russia would give Bivol the clear home advantage. Smith has fought abroad several times, including his 2020 loss to Canelo Alvarez in Texas and his stoppage defeat against Artur Beterbiev in Quebec. Accepting hostile territory may be necessary if he wants another opportunity to become a two-division champion.
The venue is not settled. Bivol and Smith failed to agree on the financial terms, leading the WBO to schedule a purse bid for August 27 at its offices in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Any registered promoter can submit an offer and determine where the bout is staged.
An open purse bid makes Russia a more likely destination. A Russian promoter can outbid Matchroom and stage Bivol’s title defense at home. That would leave Smith facing a trip to the champion’s country if he wants to keep his mandatory opportunity.
That leaves Hearn without full control despite his past involvement with both boxers. A rival promoter can win the rights and take the bout elsewhere, although Russia may produce the strongest financial offer because of Bivol’s popularity there.
Smith earned his mandatory position by defeating Joshua Buatsi by unanimous decision in February 2025. It was his best win at light heavyweight, but Bivol presents a completely different style. The champion’s movement, accuracy, and control of distance can force Smith to chase him for long stretches.
Fighting in Russia would make Smith’s job even harder. He cannot afford to leave too many rounds close, as the hometown champion may receive the benefit of the doubt from the judges. Smith is willing to travel, but the purse bid will determine who promotes the fight and where it takes place.
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