I think the Steipler didn’t have smicha. As I’ve heard that he would send halachic questions elsewhere. I’m sure there were others. I think there’s a difference between the title “Rav” and “Rabbi”. I don’t have so many qualms with calling a 30 yr old, YU graduate, pulpit position holding, person- “Rabbi”. But my Rosh Kollel’s (who doesn’t have smicha) first name is “Rav” as far as I’m concerned.
Also in the kollelim I’ve been to the yungeleit get the title “Reb” not “Rabbi” when they get married.