UFC MOURNS
Khabib’s dad Abdulmanap dead at 57: UFC star’s father ‘passes away after contracting coronavirus’
KHABIB NURMAGOMEDOV'S dad Abdulmanap has reportedly died after complications caused from coronavirus.
The legendary MMA trainer, who coached his own son to UFC title glory, has been in a Russian hospital since May after suffering a heart-attack and pneumonia brought on by Covid-19.
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Now, according to , family friend and Chechen Republic leader Ramzan Kadyrov has confirmed the 57-year-old has lost his battle.
Khabib had kept a bedside vigil at the side of the man who turned him into the UFC lightweight champion of the world.
It is understood that Abdulmanap fell ill in his home republic of Dagestan and was taken to a military hospital in Moscow via a "special flight".
Towards the end of June it was reported that Abdulmanap had woken from a coma and was 'responsive'.
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But Khabib warned that his father still had a struggle on as "the virus has had consequences for his kidneys and his heart".
Although Abdulmanap had "woke from his coma" he still couldn't speak but could recognise his son.
UFC light-heavyweight Jan Blachowicz was one of the first to pay tribute on Twitter.
The 37-year-old wrote: "Sincerest condolences to @TeamKhabib. RIP Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov."
Conor McGregor's coach John Kavanagh also shared his sorrow, writing: "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."
Radio host and former politician George Galloway also expressed his sadness on hearing the news.
The 65-year-old tweeted: "Sincere condolences @TeamKhabib on the loss of your dear father to #COVIDー19 at the age of just 57.
"May God grant him paradise and give you the strength to bear his loss."
Russian news website is reporting that plans are already being made for Abdulmanap's funeral, which will take place in Kirovaul.
The UFC world had previously rallied round to pass on their thoughts to the Nurmagomedov family when he was first admitted to hospital
Khabib's fierce cage rival Conor McGregor described him as a "true martial arts genius".
FAMILY HIT BY CORONAVIRUS
And UFC chief Dana White described how the trainer led "a life of pride, honour and respect".
In June Khabib also revealed that 20 more members of family have been sick from coronavirus.
He said: "In my personal case, I've had more than 20 people sick from my family.
"More than 20 people were lying in the ICUs. And many of them no longer among us.
"Many acquaintances have died, many parents of my relatives. Everybody is having a hard time dealing with it."
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Russia has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.
The official death toll stands at 9,859.
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