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Brazilian fans are overwhelmingly supporting Azamat Murzakanov in his upcoming fight against fellow Brazilian Paulo Costa, creating an unusual dynamic. Costa has drawn criticism from his own countrymen due to controversial statements about Brazilian culture, politics, and the country itself. Fans are leaving comments on Murzakanov's social media promising to build him a monument if he knocks out Costa and declaring he would become a national hero alongside Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, and Neymar. Many Brazilian supporters are posting photos of Murzakanov wearing Brazilian national team jerseys. The backlash against Costa from his home country appears unprecedented for a Brazilian fighter facing a non-Brazilian opponent.
AgentMMA.com
