Khabib Nurmagomedov spoke glowingly about his late father last year and it shows how much he'll be missed.
Khabib's father and trainer, Abdulmanap, sadly passed away on Friday due to complications of the deadly coronavirus disease.
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He played a big role in his son's life and professional career as a UFC champion.
Speaking in September 2019, before his UFC title defence against Dustin Poirier, 'The Eagle' spoke about the importance of having his father in his corner.
The UFC lightweight champion also touched on his influence following his victory at UFC 242.
"My dad is also my trainer, I remember him first and foremost as a father and then as a coach," the undefeated fighter explained.
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"I think it wasn't easy for him to raise me as a fighter and as a son. I think it was very difficult. I myself am now a father, I have a son. I understand just about what he feels to me.
"He played a big role in my life, and until now he still continues to be my trainer and of course my father.
"Family plays a big part in my life. I always put them ahead of everything. I don't see anything more important in this life than family. I think we should always put them first."
Abdulmanap tragically died aged 57 due to complications of COVID-19.
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He suffered a heart attack after being diagnosed with coronavirus, which required emergency surgery.
He was then twice placed into a medically-induced coma with his condition being reported as "serious but stable."
But he was shortly pronounced dead in a Moscow hospital.
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Topics: Khabib Nurmagomedov, UFC News, Fight News, UFC, MMA
