The former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov retired as one of the most dominant fighters ever to grace the promotion. ‘The Eagle’ has received much recognition and praise for his achievements, but his late father also deserves credit in abundance. Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov spent years training young fighters such as Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev in the rugged mountains of Dagestan. On account of his hard work and determination, his pupils have achieved unprecedented success in combat sports. Thus, let’s take a deeper dive into the man behind their triumph.
The Eagle’s father, Abdulmanap, was born in 1962. Not only was he an astute coach but also an army veteran, acquiring mastery in Judo and Sambo during his time serving in the military. Similar to Khabib, his father was also quite fond of playing football (Soccer).
Apart from mastering the sports, disciplinary, and self-defense arts, Abdulmanap also had a degree in accounting and economics. Considering his knowledge and accolades, it isn’t surprising to learn the legacy his students have left in the realm of MMA.
Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov coached over 18 fighters who won titles in their respective organizations. Moreover, Abdulmanap himself won several combat sports tournaments at a regional level. After ending his professional career, the legendary coach embarked on a journey to guide young fighters to glory in 1987.
Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov: The guardian angel of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev
‘The Eagle’ began training under his father at the very young age of eight. However, it was the UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, who was considered the favorite fighter of Khabib’s father. Alongside Nurmagomedov, Makhachev became a force to be reckoned with inside the famed octagon.
With the guidance of his father, Khabib Nurmagomedov became the undisputed lightweight champion in the front-running organization of MMA, UFC. The legendary coach was present in Khabib’s camp when he first clenched the title.
After losing his father to bilateral pneumonia induced by COVID-19 at the age of 57, ‘The Eagle’ decided to hang up his gloves in his next fight against Justin Gaethje. While doing so, Nurmagomedov passed on the baton to his childhood friend and teammate.
It was after Abdulmanap’s untimely demise that Makhachev got the chance to wear the prestigious golden belt around his waist. Furthermore, alongside ‘The Eagle’, the duo not only conquered the lightweight division but also became the #1 PFP fighter in the UFC during their championship reign.
Thus, several years after his death, Abdulmanap remains one of the most influential personalities in MMA. Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov’s dominance is a testament to the hard work put in by the legendary coach in molding his students.
