Zuffa Boxing‘s New York rollout is starting to look more like a direct move into Matchroom and Top Rank territory than a slow build. Edgar Berlanga and Richardson Hitchins are both New York fighters with local followings, and Sergey Derevyanchenko gives the card an established veteran name as Zuffa continues to fill out his roster for summer shows.
Dan Rafael reported that an event is planned for July 26 in New York City with Berlanga, Hitchins and Derevyanchenko all expected to appear on the card.
Per a source with knowledge of the plans, the Zuffa #Box 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 slowly build 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 fan base in the city despite his loss to Canelo Alvarez last year, and Hitchins has continued to push himself as one of Brooklyn’s top fighters after his recent title win.
Derevyanchenko’s inclusion also suggests Zuffa is trying to avoid the prospect-heavy feel that has plagued some newer boxing promotions. Even at 40, the Ukrainian veteran has remained respected for his fights against elite opposition over the years, including bouts against Gennadiy Golovkin, Jermall Charlo and Jaime Munguia.
No opponents or venue have yet been announced for the July 26 card. Still, the move continues the pattern of Zuffa targeting quickly recognizable names instead of waiting years to build market share. The company seems to want big city cards tied to local draws right away.
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Last updated on 2026/05/20 at 20:01
