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Brazilian MMA fans are showing extraordinary support for Azamat Murzakanov ahead of his fight with Brazilian fighter Paulo Costa. The unusual phenomenon stems from Costa's controversial statements about his own country, culture, and political decisions that have alienated him from his domestic fanbase. Brazilian supporters are writing messages to Murzakanov promising to build him a monument if he knocks out Costa, declaring Brazil is with him, and saying he would become a national hero on par with Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, and Neymar. Fans are also posting photos of Murzakanov photoshopped into Brazilian national team jerseys. The level of Brazilian support for a foreign fighter against one of their own countrymen is highly unusual in MMA.
AgentMMA.com
