Photo by Valery Sharifulin\TASS via Getty Images
The MMA community continues to follow the progress of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, father of UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, as the renowned Russian coach fights for his health.
Nurmagomedov, 57, was hospitalized due to complications with pneumonia and flu-like symptoms back in late April. Earlier this week, Nurmagomedov was placed into a medically-induced coma in a Moscow military hospital. Yesterday, a new report surfaced stating that Nurmagomedov had awoken from his coma following heart surgery, but remained in serious condition.
Now, another report has revealed that Nurmagomedov’s recent health issues were brought on by COVID-19. Some had wondered if this was in fact the case — especially given its rapid nature — but details remained murky.
According to the report, Nurmagomedov was diagnosed with the COVID-19 infection upon is arrival to the Moscow hospital from his native Dagestan.
As one of the most influential figures in Russian combat sports, Nurmagomedov’s recent health issues have stirred up quite a bit of support from the MMA community. Not only did UFC president Dana White offer an emotional message to the Russian coach, but Khabib’s biggest rival, Conor McGregor, reached out as well to offer his prayers and support.
While the MMA world remains massively disappointed that Khabib was unable to fight Tony Ferguson at UFC 249 due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, this takes immediate precedence over everything else. Khabib does plan on returning to the Octagon as soon as July so hopefully his father is able to make a full recovery and help “Eagle” soar to an undefeated professional record of 30-0.
Stick with Mania for more news on Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov’s recovery.