Zuffa Boxing 09: Berlanga vs. Butler Preview, Odds, and Analysis

Edgar Berlanga, a former title challenger, is set to make his highly anticipated return to the ring in the main event of Zuffa Boxing 09 against Steven Butler, a formidable opponent with a four-fight winning streak. In the co-main event, IBF Super Lightweight Champion Richardson Hitchins will face Ricardo Salas in a welterweight contest, marking his transition to a new weight class. Both Berlanga and Hitchins were recently signed by Zuffa Boxing, signaling a new era in the world of professional boxing.

Berlanga, with a record of 23-2 and 18 knockouts, has struggled in his last three fights, suffering a knockout loss against Hamzah Sheeraz in July 2025. Despite this setback, he remains a force to be reckoned with in the super middleweight division. Butler, on the other hand, boasts a 38-5-1 record, with 32 of his wins coming by way of knockout. He is riding a four-fight winning streak and currently stands as a +275 underdog against Berlanga.

Richardson Hitchins, an undefeated fighter with a 20-0 record, will put his skills to the test in the co-main event against Ricardo Salas. Hitchins' last fight saw him emerge victorious against George Kambosos Jr., marking his first win by stoppage since 2022. Salas, with a record of 24-2-2, is on a 10-fight unbeaten streak and has secured two consecutive knockouts. Hitchins is heavily favored to win, with odds standing at -800, while Salas is a +500 underdog.

This highly anticipated boxing card promises to deliver some of the most thrilling bouts of the year. The event will take place on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Fans can catch the action on Paramount+, with the Prelims set to begin at 2:00 p.m. PT/5:00 p.m. ET and the Main Card commencing at 8:00 p.m. ET. The card features an exciting lineup of matches, including Jalil Hackett vs. Sergiy Derevyanchenko, Otto Wallin vs. Vladyslav Sirenko, Emiliano Moreno vs. Arnold Gonzalez, Kashaun Davis vs. Mihai Nistor, and Troy Nash vs. Ethan Perez.

The upcoming boxing event is poised to break new ground in the sport, with several top contenders stepping into the ring. Berlanga's return will be closely watched, as he seeks to revive his career and regain his title contender status. Hitchins' move to the welterweight division will also be under scrutiny, as he looks to make a successful transition and build momentum in his career. This fight promises to deliver some of the most electrifying moments of the year, with fans eagerly anticipating the outcomes of these intense matches.

Berlanga's coach, Joel Diaz, has expressed his confidence in his fighter's abilities, stating, 'Edgar is back stronger than ever, and he's ready to take on the best in the division.' Butler, on the other hand, has been training tirelessly to prepare for the fight, determined to emerge victorious. The contrasting styles of both fighters will undoubtedly lead to a fascinating matchup, with Berlanga's aggressive approach likely to be countered by Butler's defensive prowess.

As the night unfolds, fans can expect a rollercoaster of emotions, with the fighters pushing themselves to the limit in pursuit of victory. The stakes are high, and the atmosphere will be electric, with the crowd eagerly anticipating the outcomes of these highly contested bouts. Zuffa Boxing 09 promises to be an unforgettable event, with the world's top boxers putting it all on the line in a battle for supremacy.