Nurmagomedov showed respect to Russian journalist despite manager's objections in 2018

Azamat Bostanov recounted his experience covering Khabib Nurmagomedov's title win at UFC 223 in Brooklyn eight years ago. Manager Ali Abdelaziz told Bostanov not to approach their team after he interviewed Artem Lobov, but Khabib overruled him, saying Bostanov was doing his job. Bostanov described 20-30 Dagestanis gathering at the hotel ready to prevent provocations from Conor McGregor's team. He also revealed that Zabit Magomedsharipov broke two fingers during his warmup but fought anyway without telling the athletic commission. After the event, despite being exhausted, Khabib spent time with fans at his hotel, taking photos and speaking with everyone who wanted to congratulate him. Bostanov recalled that even years later, Khabib remained approachable, once calling out to him on the street to offer a ride.