Vadim Nemkov believes Alexander Ovechkin more recognizable than Khabib in America

Bellator champion Vadim Nemkov stated in an interview that NHL superstar Alexander Ovechkin is currently more recognizable in America than retired UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. Nemkov explained that hockey is extremely popular among American youth, and children who play the sport all know who Ovechkin is. He noted that Ovechkin gained massive fame after breaking Wayne Gretzky's NHL goals record and continues to set records and remain in the spotlight. By contrast, Nemkov believes Khabib is no longer as well-known since his retirement, as he doesn't appear in the news as frequently. The comparison highlights the different trajectories of retired and active athletes in maintaining public recognition.