Sparring partner’s uplifting message to Conor McGregor truly puts everything in perspective

The picture itself says so much but we have so much appreciation for the sentiment.

After all the smack talk and publicity - good, bad, indifferent and non-stop - over the Paulie Malignaggi sparring sessions, it is heartening to see some kind words being spread. Conor McGregor has not called in too many outside influences and sparring partners in preparation for his August 26 bout with Floyd Mayweather Jr. He prefers to chart his rise with many of the people who started out from scratch with him [Owen Roddy and John Kavanagh are still his main trainers]. McGregor and his team did call in 47-fight middleweight boxer Dashon Johnson to help prepare 'The Notorious' for his mammoth task of adding an '0' to Mayweather's pristine record [49-0]. The pair have sparred in both Dublin and Las Vegas and although most of the pictures one sees show the UFC champion in command, he has reportedly been a tough test of McGregor's mettle. https://www.instagram.com/p/BWvW08Ngq8Z/?hl=en&taken-by=thenotoriousmma With most of the heavy sparring work and training done, and the fight just a week away, Johnson shared a snap of himself and McGregor embracing in the gym. His words are just fantastic. Touching on the tragic events from Charlottesville, Virginia last weekend, the 29-year-old puts so much in perspective. Johnson writes:

'In a world filled with so much racism and hate, along with the recent horrific events that have occurred in Virginia, I hope this picture spreads some light and love on the matter. 'As you can see here, we are from different parts of the world and backgrounds. Two brothers from different mothers showing love to one another. 'Come August 26, my heart bleeds for this man and is in his corner regardless of outcome. Not because of his skill, but because he is a great human being and [he] continues to show it outside the ring or octagon.'

McGregor has responded to give thanks to Johnson for all his hard work and commitment. Great to see. *Main image via Conor McGregor [Instagram]