Nurmagomedov welcomed Russian journalist despite manager's objections at UFC 223

Azamat Bostanov, now a fighter manager, recalled his experience covering Khabib Nurmagomedov's championship victory at UFC 223 in Brooklyn eight years ago. Despite manager Ali Abdel-Aziz emotionally telling Bostanov not to approach their team after he had interviewed Artem Lobov following the famous confrontation, Khabib intervened positively. Nurmagomedov put his arm around Bostanov's shoulder and told Abdel-Aziz that the journalist was their guy just doing his job. Bostanov also remembered 20-30 Dagestanis gathering at the hotel entrance when word spread that Conor McGregor's team might arrive, ready to prevent any provocations. After the event, despite being exhausted, Khabib came out to the crowded hotel hallway to take photos, placing his championship belt on Bostanov's shoulders and thanking those who supported the promotion. Bostanov noted that Khabib spent time with many people he didn't know, facilitating video calls so their friends and relatives could congratulate the new champion.