Boxing legend Paulie Malignaggi, now 44, is considering a surprising comeback to the ring, but this time, it's not just about the sport he dominated. Malignaggi, who once reigned as a junior welterweight and welterweight world champion, is eyeing a fight with Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title. But here's the twist: he's currently preparing for his first-ever bare-knuckle bout against Tyler Goodjohn, a 34-year-old English fighter.
Malignaggi's story is a fascinating one. Since his last professional boxing match in 2017, a defeat to Sam Eggington, he has become a respected pundit and commentator, offering insightful analysis and maintaining his profile in the boxing world. However, his recent comments suggest a potential return to the ring, and it's not without controversy.
"The 147lbs division is terrible," Malignaggi boldly stated, targeting the current champion, Mario Barrios. "I could probably make 147lbs if I needed to. It's a big opportunity." But is he biting off more than he can chew? Malignaggi admits that he's tempted by the prospect of a title fight, even considering a Misfits opportunity, but he believes he can beat Barrios. This claim has sparked debates among fans and experts alike.
In preparation for his upcoming bare-knuckle fight, Malignaggi has made adjustments to his training regimen, focusing on strength and conditioning, and ensuring his hands are protected, having suffered injuries in the past. He admits that his inactivity has led to a lack of conditioning, but his work as a commentator has kept his mind sharp, helping him recognize patterns and pick up useful insights.
Malignaggi's choice of opponent, Tyler Goodjohn, is no pushover. Goodjohn is a respected name in the bare-knuckle business, known for his toughness and durability. Malignaggi acknowledges that Goodjohn is aggressive and mentally strong, never having been stopped in his career. This upcoming fight promises to be a true test of Malignaggi's skills and determination.
As the fight night approaches, Malignaggi is feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. He reflects on his past training methods, wishing he had made adjustments earlier in his career to prevent injuries. This comeback story has all the elements of a classic boxing narrative: a veteran's return, a controversial challenge, and a battle against time and rust. Will Malignaggi succeed in his quest for the title, or will he fall short? Only time will tell, and the boxing world eagerly awaits the outcome.
