Brazilian fans support Murzakanov against countryman Costa

Brazilian MMA fans are overwhelmingly supporting Azamat Murzakanov over their own countryman Paulo Costa ahead of their upcoming fight. The unusual phenomenon stems from Costa's controversial statements criticizing Brazil's culture, politics, and national decisions, which have alienated him from his home fanbase. Brazilian fans are leaving comments on Murzakanov's social media promising to erect a statue in his honor if he knocks out Costa, declaring "Brazil is with you," and claiming he would become a national hero alongside Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, and Neymar. Fans have also been photoshopping images of Murzakanov wearing the Brazilian national team jersey. The situation represents a rare case of fans turning against one of their own fighters in favor of a foreign opponent.