Brazilian fans massively support Murzakanov over Costa ahead of their fight

Brazilian MMA fans have shown overwhelming and unexpected support for Azamat Murzakanov in his upcoming fight against fellow Brazilian Paulo Costa. The support appears to stem from Costa's controversial statements about Brazil, its culture, and political decisions, which have alienated him from his own countrymen. Brazilian fans have been leaving comments on Murzakanov's social media promising to build him a statue if he knocks out Costa, declaring 'Brazil is with you,' and saying he would become a national hero alongside Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, and Neymar. Fans have even been posting photoshopped images of Murzakanov wearing the Brazilian national team jersey. The situation represents an unusual case of a foreign fighter receiving home-country support against a local athlete.