Vadim Nemkov believes Alexander Ovechkin more recognizable than Khabib in America

Bellator fighter Vadim Nemkov stated in an interview that he believes NHL star Alexander Ovechkin is currently more recognizable in America than retired UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. Nemkov explained that hockey is played widely by children in America, and Ovechkin's recent breaking of Wayne Gretzky's record along with his continued presence in headlines keeps him highly visible. According to Nemkov, Khabib is less known now because he no longer competes and doesn't appear in the news as frequently. The comparison highlights the different trajectories of the two Russian sports icons.