Reporter recalls Nurmagomedov's kindness after UFC 223 title win

Journalist Azamat Bostanov shared memories from Khabib Nurmagomedov's UFC 223 championship victory eight years ago in Brooklyn. Bostanov recounted how Ali Abdelaziz initially told him to stay away from their team, but Nurmagomedov intervened, saying "This is our guy, he's just doing his job." He described how 20-30 Dagestanis gathered at the hotel entrance when word spread that Conor McGregor's team might arrive, positioning themselves to prevent provocations against Nurmagomedov. After the fight, despite being exhausted, Nurmagomedov came out to a crowded hotel floor to take photos with supporters, draped his championship belt over Bostanov's shoulder, and spent time talking to people via video calls from well-wishers. Bostanov also revealed that Zabit Magomedsharipov broke two fingers during his warm-up but kept it secret from the athletic commission and fought anyway, securing victory. The reporter emphasized that even years later, Nurmagomedov remained the same approachable, friendly person who always made time for brief conversations.