Azamat Bostanov recalls backstage access at UFC 223 with Khabib

Azamat Bostanov, now a fighter manager, shared memories from UFC 223 in Brooklyn eight years ago when Khabib Nurmagomedov became champion. Bostanov recalled interviewing Artem Lobov after the infamous confrontation with Khabib, which led to Ali Abdelaziz initially telling him not to approach the team. However, Khabib intervened positively, putting his arm around Bostanov and telling Abdelaziz that he was "our guy" just doing his job. Bostanov described how 20-30 Dagestanis gathered at the hotel entrance when word spread that Conor McGregor's team might arrive, ready to protect Khabib from provocations. He also recalled Khabib being gracious after winning the title, taking time to greet fans and pose for photos despite being exhausted, and maintaining that same friendly demeanor in subsequent meetings over the years.