Update: Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov Free From COVID-19, Remains in Intensive Care

Mandatory Credit: Esther Lin - MMA Fighting

Renowned Sambo trainer, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov is free from the novel coronavirus - according to his son, UFC lightweight champion, Khabib 'The Eagle' Nurmagomedov, but remains in intensive care in a Moscow military hospital.

Abdulmanap was struck with pneumonia in his native Dagestan in April, but after his condition deteriorated, he was transported by a special flight to Moscow for treatment. The 57-year-old was placed in a medically induced coma after a heart operation. Despite waking after the procedure, it was reported that Abdulamanap fell into a comatose state for a second time, and subsequently placed on life support.

Khabib confirmed how his father had contracted the novel coronavirus, before his manager, Dominance MMA leader, Ali Abdelaziz explained how Abdulmanap had opened his eyes and was responsive earlier this month.

Speaking with Channel One Russia, Khabib explained how his father is free from COVID-19, and how he visits him in hospital each day.

"Now, father's condition is still serious," Nurmagomedov said. "He is in intensive care. The coronavirus is gone, but the infection has left consequences on the kidneys and on the heart. Now, virus gone (sic). I come to hospital. He recognises me, but there is no communication, because he is under the hospital devices. Every day, I visit him for half an hour, hold his hand, talk, he gestures to understand that he recognises me."

"I am sure of the doctors, they are one of the best in the world, I have no doubt," Khabib explained. "Thanks so much for everything they do. In this regard, everything is very good. It just takes time, because the consequences are very difficult and the rehabilitation period will be difficult and long." (Translated by TASS reporter, Igor Lazorin.)

Abdulmanap, who has struggled in the past to attend his son, Khabib's fights in the United States due to VISA issues - featured in his corner and prominently in his camp for his most recent outing at UFC 242 last September. Nurmagomedov unified the lightweight titles against Dustin Poirier on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, and on September 19th. at UFC 253 - is expected to meet with current interim titleholder, Justin Gaethje at the same venue.