Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov was one of the most respected specialists in the field of mixed martial arts not only in Russia, but also at the international level. His death at the 58th year of life from complications of COVID-19 rallied all the representatives of MMA. They temporarily forgot about their enmity and expressed their condolences to the trainer's family, and also supported his son - UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.

RIP Mr Nurmagomedov 😔 pic.twitter.com/0pYVkZo5li

- danawhite (@danawhite) July 3, 2020

One of the first to respond to the incident in the camp was the most principled rival of Nurmagomedov Jr. - Conor McGregor. First, words of support were written by Irish sparring partner Bellator fighter Dillon Denis. It was he who was one of the instigators of the brawl that occurred at the UFC 229 tournament after the victory of the Russian.

Then McGregor's trainer John Cavan admitted that it was hard for him to find out about the death of Nurmagomedov Sr.

“The genius of martial arts and an absolute source of inspiration for many current and future fighters. Unfortunately, he only reached the peak of his coaching career, such a loss and tragedy. Rest in peace and best wishes to his family in these difficult times, ”Cavana wrote on Twitter.

Soon after, the reaction of the ex-UFC champion in the featherweight and lightweight categories appeared.

“The loss of a father, coach and a dedicated sports fan. My condolences and rest in peace, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, ”wrote MacGregor.

Nurmagomedov’s future rival Justin Gatzhi was not left behind. It is assumed that their fight should take place on September 19 as part of the UFC 253 tournament in Abu Dhabi.

“This news about the legend of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov breaks my heart. I'm sorry. Habib, your father left with a heart filled with pride, knowing that you will continue to bear his legacy, ”turned to the opponent of Gatgi.

Given the circumstances, some have already expressed doubt that their fight will not be postponed. According to some experts, it will not be easy for a Russian to tune in to a meeting from a psychological point of view after such a painful loss.

At the same time, the famous MMA fighter Jeff Monson suggested that Habib would not leave the sport anyway and would continue to perform for the sake of his father.

“Family is the most important connection that we have in life. And this has always been especially true and noticeable as an example of the relationship between Nurmagomedov and his father. I am sure that he will continue to fight. Because this is what Abdulmanap would like. The strength of his father will come in handy for him, because now he will have to fight with a broken heart. All our prayers are with Habib and his family now, ”Monson Sport24 quotes.

Condolences to Nurmagomedov and his family were expressed by other representatives of the world of mixed martial arts.

“Just heard the news about Habib’s father. My team is devastated. We admire and respect both of them. May peace be with you, brother, ”Max Holloway, former UFC featherweight champion, commented on the death of a specialist.

In turn, the American Anthony Johnson admitted that he understands well what his colleague is experiencing.

“Habib and his father had the same connection as I had with my grandfather, who adopted me. So I understand what you have to go through, brother. Hang on, we're with you, ”Johnson wrote on Instagram.

Bellator Irish fighter Peter Quilli recalled a revealing story related to Nurmagomedov Sr. He got into an unpleasant situation during a speech at one of the tournaments of the Russian promotion Fight Night Global. Then a specialist came to the rescue, who managed to settle everything thanks to his authority.

“Rest in peace, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. After my victory in the last match in Russia, the crowd began to rush into the cage. The situation was becoming truly frightening; my safety was in jeopardy. Abdulmanap entered the octagon and very quickly figured it out, ”recalled Quillie.

Ali Abdel-Aziz, the manager of Khabib Nurmagomedov, dedicated the post that he accompanied with a quote from the Koran to the death of the famous specialist.

View this Instagram post

Publication by Ali (@ aliabdelaziz000) Jul 3, 2020 at 5:29 PDT

The words of support through social networks were also conveyed by the famous Dutch heavyweight Alistar Overeem, Pole Jan Blahovic, Briton Mark Goddard, American Tracy Cortes, as well as a renowned fighter and coach Renzo Gracie.

“My dear brother ... The condolences to the loss of your family. Your father will be missed. Beautiful soul. Now God has a great trainer, ”Gracie wrote.