Nurmagomedov welcomed Russian journalist despite manager's objection in 2018

Azamat Bostanov, now a fighter manager, recalled his experience covering Khabib Nurmagomedov's title win at UFC 223 in Brooklyn eight years ago. Ali Abdelaziz initially told Bostanov not to approach their team after he had interviewed Artem Lobov following the famous bus incident. However, Khabib overruled his manager, putting his arm around Bostanov and saying he was their guy just doing his job. Bostanov also recalled 20-30 Dagestanis gathering at the hotel entrance after hearing Conor McGregor's team might arrive, and noted that Zabit Magomedsharipov fought with two broken fingers on that card without telling the athletic commission. After the event, Khabib took time to meet with a large crowd of supporters despite being exhausted, even allowing Bostanov to wear his championship belt for a photo.