Former boxing champion gets angry with McGregor over leaked image

C. McGregor and P. Malinaggi (Photo: Reproduction Instagram ginger_bread_photos)

Paulie Malinaggi, former boxing champion, was recruited by Conor McGregor to help him prepare for the superfight against Floyd Mayweather on August 26th. However, the recently retired boxer was angered by leaked training photos and decided to leave the team that helps prepare the Irishman. In one of the images, Malinaggi appears on the ground while Conor is standing, suggesting he was knocked down during sparring.

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The photos were reportedly leaked by the UFC champion's own team, but subsequently deleted. Fans of the fighter, however, saved the images and reproduced them, irritating Malinaggi, who guarantees that he was superior to McGregor during the sparring sessions.

“It's not cool to paint an image that isn't true, that was a push during sparring. Publish the full video from round 1 to 12 without editing. The UFC has cameras throughout the gym filming 24 hours a day. Let fans see the original, unedited video from rounds 1 to 12. I came to help with the camp, not to be exploited, but now you will have the truth. Post the video in full on Thursday night. I actually broke up with him 24 hours after getting off two flights, which is why I'm telling you to post the video. I don’t want to be petty, but it’s a little late for that now”, declared Malinaggi, on his official Twitter.

The former boxer participated in the superfight's publicity tour as a commentator and is expected to remain on the team that will broadcast the duel. WBA welterweight champion between 2012 and 2013, Malinaggi retired from boxing this year after a career that lasted almost 17 years. His last fight was a loss to Sam Eggington in March. His record ended at 36 wins and eight losses.