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Brazilian MMA fans are overwhelmingly supporting Azamat Murzakanov over their own countryman Paulo Costa in their upcoming fight. The unusual dynamic stems from Costa's controversial statements about Brazil's culture and political decisions, which have alienated him from his home fanbase. Brazilian commenters have promised to build Murzakanov a statue if he knocks out Costa and declared him a potential national hero alongside football legends Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, and Neymar. Fans have also been posting photoshopped images of Murzakanov in Brazilian national team jerseys. The backlash against Costa highlights how deeply his comments have affected his standing with Brazilian supporters.
AgentMMA.com
