Even before it was all made official, two-division world boxing champion Paulie Malignaggi lambasted both Conor McGregor and the mere idea of him fighting Floyd Mayweather Jr. “Magic Man” previously said McGregor would not even stand a chance at the New York City Golden Gloves, after having seen the sparring video against Chris van Heerden.
Ironically, Malignaggi was eventually tapped to be one of McGregor’s sparring partners in preparation for the August 26th fight. And after spending a few weeks in camp, Malignaggi says he has now developed a newfound respect for the Irishman.