Khabib Nurmagomedov is a lightweight UFC champion and one of the MMA's biggest stars.

But right now there are several different things that keep him away from the cage. In addition to the corona pandemic that keeps him in his native Russia, Ramadan, the holy month of fasting in Islam, is also going on, and Nurmagomedov's father is seriously ill.

His father, as well as trainer Abdulmanap, recently underwent cardiac surgery and has also suffered from the corona virus. He is currently in hospital and Khabib describes the condition as "critical" via his Instagram account.

The UFC champion also urges people to take the virus seriously and stay isolated.

- Over 20 people in my family have fallen ill and ended up in intensive care. Several of them are no longer with us, but have passed away. It's a really tough time right now, says Khabib Nurmagomedov.

McGregor: "I pray for him"

Khabib Nurmagomedov has won 28 MMA matches and won all. Dad Abdulmanap - highlighted by American coach Javier Mendez and other people around Khabib - was the most important person in his son's career.

Many big names in the MMA world now support Khabib Nurmagomedov and his family. Even the star arch rival Conor McGregor, who had a very infected relationship with the Russian.

"Pray for Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov to recover. A man who has educated many world champions in various martial arts disciplines. A genius in the martial arts world. Very sorry to hear this news tonight. I pray for the Nurmagomedov family, ”writes the Irishman.

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Cameroon Francis Ngannou knocked out opponent Jair Rozenstruik, Suriname, at tonight's UFC gala. Photo: TT