TheMix.net

The MMA world is reacting to reports that Khabib Nurmagomedov’s father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov has passed away, and one of those people is Conor McGregor’s longtime coach, John Kavanagh.

Kavanagh calls Nurmagomedov a “genius”

According to reports out of Russia, the 57-year-old Nurmagomedov has died, following a lengthy battle with COVID-19 and resulting complications.

Since news of Nurmagomedov’s death was reported, Kavanagh shared out these comments.

Very sorry to hear of the passing of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. A genius of combat sports and absolute inspiration to so many up and coming fighters. Sadly only entering his prime of coaching such a loss and tragedy. RIP and best wishes to his family during this difficult time

These are classy and thoughtful comments from Kavanagh, but if you’ve followed the Straight Blast Gym leader, you know this isn’t a surprise.

No comment yet from McGregor

As this is being written, McGregor himself has yet to comment publicly on the news. But, although he is a bitter rival of Khabib’s, there’s a good chance the star will share his condolences with the Nurmagomedov family.

Back in May, when it was reported that Nurmagomedov was critically ill, McGregor let it be known he was praying for the recovery of Khabib’s father.

McGregor faced Khabib in October, 2018, and was submitted by the undefeated fighter. The lead-up to the bout was one of the most intense and heated in MMA history, in large part, due to inflammatory statements McGregor made.