Khabib Nurmagomedov’s team-mate shot and killed in Dagestan with murder ‘motivated by accusations of bullying in his gym’

A Russian mixed martial artist and team-mate of UFC icon Khabib Nurmagomedov has reportedly been shot and killed in Makhachkala, Dagestan.

Magomedrasul Mutaev died as a result of the shooting which took place on January 31.

Mutaev was a student Khabib’s late father Abdulmanap’s school of martial arts and posted a picture of himself and the former lightweight champion just days before his passing.

The report from RT claims that Mutaev was shot eight times outside an apartment block on Gaptsakhskaya Street and succumbed to the wounds shortly after.

It is believed that there was a previous attempt on the 21-year-old’s life.

Caucasion Knot have also reported that 18-year-old Nadyrkhan Kadirkhanov has been arrested in connection with the shooting.

The outlet claims that it was motivated by personal issues which stemmed from bullying inside the gym. 

Telegram channel Tut Dagestan expanded, citing a source who said: ‘Mutaev took advantage of being stronger than young guys in the gym. 

‘He mocked the younger ones and took their belongings away from them. I don’t justify the kiler, but the guy’s nerves simply couldn’t stand the bullying.’ 

It is also alleged that Mutaev ‘severely beat’ Kadirkhanov a week before the incident and put out cigarettes on him after comments made about his father.

AMC Fight Nights released a statement on Telegram about the fighter’s death which read: ‘terrible tragedy! It is with deep regret that we announce the premature death of a young and promising athlete! 

‘Over the course of his 20 years, he managed to leave a bright mark on the world of martial arts; his bright image will forever remain in our hearts. Our condolences to the family and loved ones!’