Brazilian fans overwhelmingly support Murzakanov against compatriot Costa

Brazilian MMA fans are showing extraordinary support for Azamat Murzakanov ahead of his fight with Brazilian Paulo Costa. The unusual phenomenon sees Costa being criticized by his own countrymen due to controversial statements he has made about Brazil, its culture, and political decisions. Brazilian fans have flooded Murzakanov's social media with supportive comments, including promises to build him a statue if he knocks out Costa and declarations that he would become a national hero alongside Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, and Neymar. Fans have also been posting photos of Murzakanov digitally placed in Brazilian national team jerseys. The level of Brazilian support for a foreign fighter against one of their own represents a rare occurrence in MMA fan culture.