Azamat Bostanov recalls Khabib's 2018 title win and hospitality amid tensions

MMA journalist and manager Azamat Bostanov shared memories from UFC 223 in Brooklyn eight years ago when Khabib Nurmagomedov became UFC champion. Bostanov recounted being initially warned away by manager Ali Abdelaziz after interviewing Artem Lobov following the famous confrontation, but Khabib personally welcomed him, saying he was just doing his job. Bostanov described 20-30 Dagestanis gathering at the hotel to protect Khabib from potential Conor McGregor provocations. He also revealed that Zabit Magomedsharipov broke two fingers during warmups before his fight on that card but concealed the injury to avoid being pulled by the athletic commission. After the event, despite exhaustion, Khabib spent time with a crowded hotel room of supporters, many of whom he didn't know, patiently taking photos and video calls. Bostanov emphasized Khabib's consistent kindness over the years, recalling how the champion later stopped his vehicle to offer him a ride in Moscow.