Brazilian fans support Murzakanov over Paulo Costa ahead of UFC bout

Brazilian fans are overwhelmingly supporting Azamat Murzakanov in his upcoming fight against Brazilian Paulo Costa, creating an unusual scenario where a foreign fighter receives home country support. The backing stems from Costa's controversial statements about Brazil, its culture, and political decisions, which have alienated many of his compatriots. Brazilian fans are flooding Murzakanov's social media with messages of support, including promises to erect a statue if he knocks out Costa and declarations that he would become a national hero alongside football legends. Supporters are also mass-posting images of Murzakanov in Brazilian national team jerseys. One fan told Murzakanov that Brazil is with him, while another compared potential hero status to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, and Neymar.