Following the untimely death of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s father Abdulmanap, the undefeated lightweight champ has honored his mentor and coach with a passage from the Quran.
Nurmagomedov pays tribute to his father
Earlier this month, it was confirmed that Khabib’s father, Abdulmanap, had passed away from complications related to COVID-19. The renowned coach passed away in a Russian hospital, following a lengthy battle with the virus and other medical issues that arose from it.
Understandably, we haven’t heard much from Khabib since his father passed, but more recently, the devout Muslim posted the tribute below.
“Quran 17:23-24.
And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], “uff,” and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.
And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, “My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small.”
Khabib’s return?
Due to how close Khabib was with his father, there’s been extensive speculation about when he’ll fight again. Prior to his father’s passing, the expectation was that Khabib would return to action in September and face interim champ, Justin Gaethje.
But, some, including Daniel Cormier, now believe that’s very unlikely. Nurmagomedov’s last bout took place last September, when he submitted Dustin Poirier.