Update: Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov "Progresses" in Russian Hospital

Mandatory Credit: Khabib Nurmagomedov's Instagram

Renowned sambo coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov has "progressed" in a hospital in Russian, having twice fallen to a comatose state, amid complications having contracted COVID-19. Nurmagomedov underwent heart surgery in a Moscow military hospital after he was transported from a facility in his native Dagestan, having contracted pneumonia in April.

The 57-year-old was until to speak or move after waking from an initial coma, but according to Ali Abdelaziz, the manager of UFC lightweight champion, Khabib - the veteran trainer's condition has improved somewhat.

Speaking with ESPN reporter, Brett Okamoto - Dominance MMA leader, Abdelaziz explained how Abdulamnap is "progressing".

"Khabib (Nurmagomedov) is strong, his family is very strong and his father is very strong," Abdelaziz said. "He's improving. He opened his eyes, responding a little bit - a good sign. Allah is in control. We have faith he will be better, but at the end of the day, it's completely up to his health whether it progresses or not. But he's progressing, and we're very happy about this."

Although he's responding, and has spoken and smiled at his son, Khabib, Abdulmanap still remains in a serious condition.

As for Khabib, a lightweight title unification bout between himself, and interim gold holder, Justin Gaethje, is currently targeted to headline UFC 253 on September 19th - with a location and venue for the event still yet to be disclosed by the organization.