Morrell has parted ways with longtime coach Ronnie Shields and brought in Cuban coach Ismael Salas, a move he described as necessary rather than spectacular.
“2026 will be my year. I want to fight for the undisputed world at 175 pounds,” said Morrell above. El Palco Podcast. “First comes a big fight, maybe against Callum Smith or someone like that.”
That fight remains unresolved. The WBO had ordered Morrell to fight Smith in July 2025, but negotiations between Matchroom and Warriors Boxing and TGB Promotions have stalled over several extensions. The situation remains unresolved as the calendar turns.
For Morrell, the biggest change is happening in the gym. He said the decision to leave Shields was about timing and clarity rather than frustration.
“I decided to change teachers because I needed a new voice in my corner, someone who understands me well now,” said Morrell. “Ronnie has done a good job for many years. The time has come to improve and correct the details that I saw in my last fights, especially in defense and handling pressure.”
He was more than right about the downside of Salas. “I want to be smarter, not just rely on power. With Salas, we’re clarifying all that to be ready for the big names.”
Those comments were important in 2025. Against Benavidez and Khataev, Morrell spent long periods of time packing, throwing jobs without responding. When he released his hands, he hurt both men. Then he stopped. Khataev even dropped him in the fifth round in a split decision that many thought might go either way.
Morrell hasn’t closed the door on Benavidez either. “A lot of people are asking for a rematch. If he decides to stay at light weight, yeah, I’d love it,” Morrell said. “I learned a lot from that fight, the fight will be different.”
If Morrell is serious about that path, the improvement should show. That’s where the power is. It was always there. The next version needs to be used before the war ends.
