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Brazilian MMA fans are overwhelmingly supporting Azamat Murzakanov ahead of his fight against Brazilian fighter Paulo Costa, creating an unusual situation where locals back the foreign fighter. Brazilian fans are criticizing Costa heavily due to his controversial statements about the country, its culture, and political decisions. Comments from Brazilian fans promise to build Murzakanov a statue if he knocks out Costa, with some declaring he would become a national hero on par with Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, and Neymar. Fans are even creating and sharing images of Murzakanov wearing Brazilian national team colors. The level of domestic backlash against Costa appears unprecedented for a Brazilian UFC fighter.
AgentMMA.com
