What Happened to Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov?

Abdulmanap Magomedovich Nurmagomedov, born on December 10, 1962, in the village of Sildi, Dagestan, was a foundational figure in Russian combat sports. After serving in the Soviet Army, where he honed his skills in judo and sambo, he transitioned into coaching, a career that would define his immense impact. His early success came in 1992 when his brother, Nurmagomed Nurmagomedov, won a World Sambo Championship for Ukraine, marking the beginning of what would become known as the 'Manapov school' of athletes.

Nurmagomedov was a master of sports in freestyle wrestling and an Honored Coach of Russia, recognized in September 2019 by the Russian Book of Records as the most successful combat sambo coach in the country, having trained 18 world champions. His coaching philosophy emphasized discipline, mental toughness, and a relentless grappling-heavy style, which became the hallmark of Dagestani fighters. He was instrumental in shaping the careers of numerous elite fighters, most notably his son Khabib Nurmagomedov, who became an undefeated UFC Lightweight Champion, and Islam Makhachev, who also achieved UFC championship status.

Tragically, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov contracted COVID-19 in April 2020, during the pandemic in Russia. He was initially hospitalized in Makhachkala with bilateral pneumonia and later transferred to a Moscow clinic in early May as his condition rapidly worsened. The virus severely impacted an existing heart condition, leading to further complications, including strokes. Despite efforts to treat him, he succumbed to these complications and passed away on July 3, 2020, at the age of 57.

The consequences of his passing were profound, particularly for his son Khabib, who retired from mixed martial arts after his victory over Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 in October 2020, dedicating the win to his late father. However, Abdulmanap's legacy did not end with his death. As of 2026, his coaching philosophy, often referred to as the 'Father's Plan,' continues to be a guiding principle for fighters from Dagestan. Khabib Nurmagomedov has actively carried forward his father's methods, transitioning into a coaching role and cornering fighters like Islam Makhachev and Umar Nurmagomedov, ensuring that Abdulmanap's system of discipline, grappling, and tactical control remains relevant and continues to produce champions. In March 2026, Khabib spoke about his father's greatest legacy, highlighting its emphasis on faith and guiding people to become good individuals, extending beyond just fighting and training.