The UFC two-weight champion Conor McGregor has contacted retired boxer and former world champion Paulie Malignaggi in hopes of getting him as a sparring partner. McGregor is currently preparing for his mega-fight against Floyd Mayweather Jr and he’ll certainly accept any help he can get.
“I’m working out details to spar with McGregor. If it’s something that’s gonna be feasible, it’ll be cool. It’s interesting that they called me in general. They have reached out to me and we are in talks,” said Malignaggi in an interview with Showtime Podcast.
Malignaggi and McGregor do share a bit of a history. The former IBF world champion called out the Irishman after it was revealed that McGregor was granted a boxing license.
“I did call him out and I think that shows the character of the man. He could’ve said ‘screw that kid’. I think it shows the competitive spirit and the willingness to learn on McGregor’s part. It shows you how hungry he is because he put that pride aside. It makes me respect him a little more,” he commented.
McGregor’s camp is in progress and should Malignaggi join, it will be in Vegas.
“I’m curious about this training camp. I know he started his camp in Ireland and then he’s going to move it to Las Vegas and that’s where I’m going to join him,” he said.
Malignaggi will do his best to help McGregor. The American said he will approach the situation as a ‘team player’. Meaning no head hunting or trying to prove something.
“I don’t have my fighter eyes on anymore. I’m not coming in as a 22-year old sparring partner. At that age, I went there to prove something. I’m coming here more as a team player. I’m curious to see what’s there. That first sparring session, that first round will be very interesting.”