The planned July 26 card signals Zuffa’s aggressive push into major-city boxing with established names instead of prospects
Zuffa Boxing’s expansion into New York is accelerating quickly with Edgar Berlanga, Richardson Hitchins, and Sergey Derevyanchenko expected on a planned July 26 card. The move signals a direct push into major-market boxing territory traditionally dominated by promoters like Matchroom and Top Rank.
Dan Rafael reported that a July 26 event in New York City is being planned with Berlanga, Hitchins, and Derevyanchenko all expected to appear on the card.
Per source with knowledge of the plans, the Zuffa #Boxing card that will include Edgar Berlanga, Richardson Hitchins and Sergey Derevyanchenko is in the works for July 26 in NYC.
— Dan Rafael (@DanRafael1) May 20, 2026
The timing is notable because Zuffa has spent the last few months aggressively signing recognizable American fighters rather than trying to build slowly from unknown prospects. Berlanga signed earlier this year after leaving Matchroom, while Hitchins also joined the company despite already holding the IBF junior welterweight title.
The New York angle makes sense for both fighters. Berlanga still has a strong Puerto Rican fanbase in the city despite his loss to Canelo Alvarez last year, and Hitchins has continued pushing himself as one of Brooklyn’s top fighters following his recent title win.
Derevyanchenko’s inclusion also suggests Zuffa is trying to avoid the prospect-heavy feel that has hurt some newer boxing promotions. Even at 40, the Ukrainian veteran has remained respected because of his fights against elite opposition over the years, including bouts against Gennadiy Golovkin, Jermall Charlo, and Jaime Munguia.
No opponents or venue have been announced yet for the July 26 card. Still, the move continues the pattern of Zuffa targeting recognizable names quickly instead of waiting years to build market share. The company looks like it wants major-city cards tied to local draws right away.