At 23, Hackett (12-1, 9 KOs) will be taking a significant step up in experience against one of the most battle-tested veterans in the sport. The Washington, D.C. native has won three straight fights since suffering the lone defeat of his career, a 10-round split decision loss to Jose Roman Vazquez in December 2024.
The bout also marks a move to middleweight for Hackett, who has spent most of his career campaigning at junior middleweight.
Derevyanchenko (16-6, 11 KOs), now 40 years old, remains a respected name despite losses in two of his last four fights dating back to 2023. The Ukrainian veteran has shared the ring with some of the best fighters of his era, including Gennadiy Golovkin, Daniel Jacobs, Jermall Charlo, Carlos Adames, and Jaime Munguia.
Initial reports of the matchup emerged around June 10-11 when Ring Magazine reported that the fight was being added to the Zuffa Boxing card. Other outlets soon followed, describing the contest as agreed to in principle but not yet finalized.
Now officially confirmed, Hackett will have an opportunity to score the most recognizable victory of his career against a veteran who has spent years competing at world-class level. A win would strengthen his standing as one of boxing’s emerging prospects while giving him a notable name on his resume..
Read the full article here
