Last month, Khabib Nurmagomedov’s father, Abdulmanap, died from complications due to COVID-19. It was a shocking blow to the UFC lightweight champion and MMA in general. Following his passing, questions abounded about what the future would have in store for Khabib and whether he would defend his title this year. Those questions were answered when Nurmagomedov agreed to defend his title against interim champion Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 in October. But though Khabib is defending his title soon, don’t think that means he’s not still mourning his father.
In a recent press conference (courtesy of RT Sport), Nurmagomedov addressed the passing of his father and his upcoming title fight, admitting that the loss is affecting his training but saying that he hopes it will come out stronger.