[SPORT] Dying of coronavirus Abdulmanap, father and trainer of Khabib Nurmagomedov

[YaKuZa--BoSs]

 

Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, father and coach of UFC champion Khabib, has died at the age of 57 from the coronavirus. The man had been in the hospital since May, and had to undergo heart surgery for complications due to a previous respiratory illness.

"We have lost our spine," Khabib's manager Ali Abdelaziz explained to ESPN. "He was a father, a coach, a brother ... An icon. Things will never be the same without him."

The UFC paid tribute to Abdulmanap, who earned Master of Sports recognition in wrestling as an elite athlete, and the title of Honorable Coach of Russia during his career as a coach.

"Abdulmanap also played a critical role in the lives of countless Russian fighters who made their way to major mixed martial arts events worldwide and their loss will be felt throughout the sports world," the UFC said in a statement.

Former UFC champion Conor McGregor joined in condolences towards the father of who has been one of his great rivals. "The loss of a father, a coach and a dedicated man of the sport," McGregor said on Twitter. "Condolences and rest in peace Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov."