Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, 1962-2020

Photo by Press Office of Dagestan’s Head TASS via Getty Images

A sad day for the mixed martial arts (MMA) community after Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, father of Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, has died from COVID-19 complications at age 57, according to RT.com.

Abdulmanap was placed in a medically-induced coma after being admitted to the hospital last May in Moscow, Russia, where he underwent emergency bypass surgery. At the time, doctors were able to stabilize his condition but the longtime combat sports trainer remained gravely ill.

“Very sorry to hear of the passing of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov,” rival coach John Kavanagh wrote on Twitter. “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.”

Khabib is expected to defend his lightweight title against Justin Gaethje in the UFC 253 pay-per-view (PPV) main event in September.