Khabib Nurmagomedov defended journalist after Abdel-Aziz confrontation at UFC 223

Russian journalist and current MMA manager Azamat Bostanov has shared memories from UFC 223 in Brooklyn eight years ago, when Khabib Nurmagomedov won the lightweight title. Bostanov recalls that after interviewing Artem Lobov following the infamous confrontation with Khabib, manager Ali Abdel-Aziz told him not to approach their team. However, Khabib intervened, putting his arm around Bostanov and telling Abdel-Aziz that he was "our guy" just doing his job. Bostanov also remembers 20-30 Dagestanis gathering at the hotel entrance to protect Khabib from potential provocations, and Khabib generously giving time to fans despite exhaustion after winning the belt. The journalist highlighted Khabib's consistent approachability and kindness over the years, even recalling a chance meeting in Moscow a year later when the champion stopped his vehicle to greet him.