Nurmagomedov welcomed journalist after manager initially refused access

Azamat Bostanov recounted his experience covering Khabib Nurmagomedov's UFC 223 title win eight years ago in Brooklyn. When Bostanov encountered Ali Abdelaziz and Khabib's team, the manager emotionally told him not to approach or communicate with them, apparently due to Bostanov having interviewed Artem Lobov after the bus incident. However, Khabib intervened by putting his arm around Bostanov's shoulder and telling Abdelaziz, "This is our guy, it's all normal, he's just doing his work." Bostanov also recalled 20-30 Dagestanis gathering at the hotel entrance after hearing Conor McGregor's team might arrive, ready to prevent provocations. He described the massive crowd at Khabib's hotel floor after the victory, with Khabib taking time to greet everyone, let them wear his belt for photos, and speak with their relatives via video calls despite being exhausted. Bostanov emphasized that Khabib remained the same approachable, friendly person even after subsequent title defenses.