Brazilian fans massively support Murzakanov over Costa ahead of their fight

In a surprising turn, Brazilian MMA fans are overwhelmingly supporting Azamat Murzakanov over their countryman Paulo Costa ahead of the fighters' upcoming bout. The support stems from Costa's controversial statements about Brazil, its culture, and political decisions, which have alienated him from many Brazilian fans. Comments to Murzakanov from Brazilian supporters include promises to erect a monument if he knocks out Costa and declarations that he would become a national hero on par with Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, and Neymar. Fans have also been posting images of Murzakanov photoshopped into the Brazilian national team jersey. This represents an unusual situation where a foreign fighter receives home-country support against a Brazilian athlete.