Vadim Nemkov believes Alex Ovechkin more recognizable than Khabib in America

Bellator champion Vadim Nemkov stated in an interview that NHL star Alexander Ovechkin is currently more recognizable in America than former UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. Nemkov explained that hockey is extremely popular among American youth, with many children playing the sport from an early age and knowing who Ovechkin is. He noted that Ovechkin's recent record-breaking achievement surpassing Wayne Gretzky keeps him constantly in the news and at the top of sports headlines. In contrast, Nemkov believes Khabib's profile has diminished since his retirement, as he no longer generates the same media attention or appears in news cycles as frequently. The comments highlight the different trajectories of retired versus active athletes in maintaining public recognition.