Russian journalist and current manager Azamat Bostanov shared memories from UFC 223 in Brooklyn, where Khabib Nurmagomedov became champion eight years ago. Manager Ali Abdel-Aziz initially told Bostanov to stay away from the team after he interviewed Artem Lobov following the infamous confrontation with Khabib. However, Khabib intervened, putting his arm around Bostanov and telling Abdel-Aziz he was their guy just doing his job. Bostanov recalls 20-30 Dagestanis gathering at the hotel ready to protect Khabib from potential provocations by Conor McGregor's team. After winning the title, despite being exhausted, Khabib took photos with fans, put his belt on Bostanov's shoulder, and spent time talking to everyone in his crowded hotel room, including many strangers. Years later, Khabib still recognized Bostanov on the street and offered him a ride, showing his consistent down-to-earth nature even as champion.
