Who said they did? I would double-back on your research and make sure you didn't assume this to be, cause chances are people DID but just didn't mention it or perhaps you glazed over it.
Just a suggestion though. I do understand where you're coming from; When I was getting my TNF bumper I went as far to message other users to see what winch they were using and how well it fit - had one or two people tell me they were using a Smittybilt X20 and assured me it would fit, however my SB XRC is a tad bit smaller than an X20 and has MAYBE 1cm of wiggle room in all directions, so how the hell they got theirs in there and had it fit is beyond me.
As said you're only real option is relocating the control box to a different location, or perhaps try clocking the engagement lever over one or two positions if that's what's binding. Aside from that you're pretty SOL aside from a new unit or new bumper; it's a finite amount of space and the winch can only be broken down so much. Between those options I'd cut the grille and let it be a lesson to research your decisions in the future.