Father of UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov dies at 57 due to COVID-19 complications
The father of the Russian MMA superstar was originally diagnosed with the coronavirus in April
Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov has died at age 57 after a battle with COVID-19. The father of UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov was first admitted to the hospital in April before being transferred to a military hospital where he subsequently tested positive for the coronavirus before suffering a heart attack and undergoing emergency bypass surgery. The older Nurmagomedov was twice placed into medically-induced comas and remained in serious condition.
Ramzan Kadyrov, controversial head of the Chechen Republic and a Nurmagomedov family friend, posted the following to Telegram on Friday: "Sad news reached me, friends, that Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov left this world. I sincerely condole the whole Chechen people to the family of Abdulmanap Magomedovich! He left us, leaving behind a good name and raising a worthy generation."
Conor McGregor, chief rival of Khabib Nurmagomedov in recent years, was among those within the MMA community to offer condolences upon the news of Abdulmanap's death on Friday.
The loss of a father, a coach, and a dedicated supporter of the sport. Condolences and rest in peace Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov.
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) July 3, 2020
You will be missed Mr. Nurmagomedov pic.twitter.com/Yq4pEl9kYH
— danawhite (@danawhite) July 3, 2020
My condolences go out to @TeamKhabib, his family and all of the people affected by the passing of Abdulmanap. He was a leader that influenced many young men and coached them to their dreams. I pray that Abdulmanap is with Allah now. The world of combat sports is with you.
— Michael Chiesa (@MikeMav22) July 3, 2020
🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/2Sj7viuhUb
So heartbreaking to hear this news of the Legend Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. I’m very sorry @TeamKhabib You’re dad passed with a heart full of pride knowing you will carry on his legacy.
— Justin Gaethje 🇺🇸 (@Justin_Gaethje) July 3, 2020
Very sorry to hear of the passing of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. A genius of combat sports and absolute inspiration to so many up and coming fighters. Sadly only entering his prime of coaching such a loss and tragedy. RIP and best wishes to his family during this difficult time 🙏🏽
— Coach Kavanagh (@John_Kavanagh) July 3, 2020
Just heard news about Khabib's father. My team is gutted. We admire and respect both of them so much. Peace be with you my brother
— Max Holloway (@BlessedMMA) July 3, 2020
Deeply saddened to hear this news. My heart goes out to the ever-classy champion @TeamKhabib and his family. I’ll never forget that moment between father and son in the Octagon at UFC 242 last fall. 🙏🏼 https://t.co/ICDBq7C5zD
— Jon Anik (@Jon_Anik) July 3, 2020
Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov was a wrestling and sambo specialist who guided the careers of many Dagestani fighters, including his son, who he began training at 8 years old. He continued training Khabib for his entire career despite repeatedly being turned down for a travel visa and rarely appearing in his son's corner when he fought on American soil.
Nurmagomedov was also a senior coach for the Republic of Dagestan's national sambo team.
