The passing of an influential coach and father.
The MMA world received some disheartening news as Abdulmanap, the father and coach of UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, has passed away in Moscow, Russia. The passing of Abdulmanap was confirmed by Ali Abdelaziz, the manager of Khabib Nurmagomedov.
The elder Nurmagomedov was hospitalized back in may when he contracted the coronavirus. While he was hospitalized he underwent heart surgery for a preexisting condition. Reports say that things were further complicated by the virus.
Ali Abdelaziz posted a photo of Abdulmanap and Khabib Nurmagomedov on his social media page expressing his condolences.
Abdelaziz told ESPN the following:
“We’ve lost our backbone.
“He was a father, coach, brother, an icon. Things will never be the same without him.”
Future opponent and UFC interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje expressed his condolences over social media.
“So heartbreaking to hear this news of the Legend Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov,” posted Gaethje. “I’m very sorry [Khabib]. [Your] dad passed with a heart full of pride knowing you will carry on his legacy.”
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
As of now no word has come from Khabib Nurmagomedov himself. Abdulmanap was a staple in the UFC champion’s corner and taught Khabib nearly everything he knows. A dedicated father, coach, and Muslim, Abdulmanap was a pillar of strength in the Nurmagomedov camp.
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Managing Editor at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
Header image courtesy of Instagram
