A Homecoming of Sorts
Serhiy Derevianchenko, the Ukrainian middleweight contender, will step into the ring on July 26 in New York City against American fighter Jalil Hackett. The bout is scheduled at the Infosys Theatre inside Madison Square Garden and will serve as the main card opener for Zuffa Boxing 09. Derevianchenko, who holds a professional record of 16 wins (11 by knockout) and 6 losses, is dropping back down to middleweight after competing in his last four fights at super middleweight. He last fought in July 2025, stopping Jeremy Ramos in the sixth round.
Jalil Hackett, a 23-year-old prospect trained under Floyd Mayweather's promotion, brings a record of 12 wins (9 KOs) and 1 loss. He turned professional in 2020. In December 2024, Hackett suffered a split-decision defeat to Jose Roman at welterweight, but has since bounced back with three consecutive victories. One of his most recent wins came on February 1, 2026, when he defeated Roberto Cruz Jr. by majority decision in Las Vegas.
What's at Stake
This fight marks a critical juncture for Derevianchenko. In October 2018, he lost a split decision to Daniel Jacobs for the vacant IBF middleweight title, and a year later, he dropped a unanimous decision to Gennady Golovkin. After moving up to super middleweight for four bouts, he now returns to the 160-pound limit (72.6 kg). Notably, before his 2025 comeback victory, Derevianchenko had spent over a year out of the ring following a loss to Christian Mbilli in August 2024.
Both fighters have much to prove. Derevianchenko aims to reestablish himself as a force in the middleweight division after a string of setbacks, while Hackett looks to solidify his reputation as a rising contender. A win here could open significant doors for either man. The event will be broadcast on Paramount+ and also features Edgar Berlanga facing Steven Butler, along with Richardson Hitchins making his welterweight debut against Ricardo Salas.
This matchup promises to be a compelling clash of experience versus youth, with both athletes seeking to advance their careers on a prominent stage.