Khabib intervened when Ali Abdelaziz tried to ban journalist in 2018

Azamat Bostanov, now an MMA manager, recalls his experience covering Khabib Nurmagomedov's title win at UFC 223 in Brooklyn eight years ago. After Bostanov interviewed Artem Lobov following the infamous bus incident, manager Ali Abdelaziz told him not to approach their team. However, Khabib put his arm around Bostanov and told Abdelaziz "This is our guy, he's just doing his job," allowing the journalist access. Bostanov also remembers 20-30 Dagestanis gathering at the hotel entrance when word spread that Conor McGregor's team might arrive, ready to protect Khabib from provocations. After the fight, despite being exhausted, Khabib spent time with fans in the crowded hotel hallway, taking photos and speaking with strangers via video calls. Years later, Khabib recognized Bostanov on the street and offered him a ride, demonstrating his continued accessibility despite becoming champion.