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Brazilian fans are overwhelmingly backing Azamat Murzakanov ahead of his fight with fellow countryman Paulo Costa, creating an unusual situation. Costa has been heavily criticized by his own compatriots due to controversial statements about Brazil's culture, country, and political decisions. Comments from Brazilian fans to Murzakanov include promises to build him a statue if he knocks out Costa, declarations that Brazil supports him, and comparisons to national heroes like Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, and Neymar. Fans are also posting images of Murzakanov photoshopped into Brazilian national team jerseys. This represents a rare instance of Brazilian MMA fans actively rooting against one of their own fighters.
AgentMMA.com
