Vadim Nemkov: Ovechkin more recognizable in America than Khabib Nurmagomedov

Bellator champion Vadim Nemkov stated in an interview that Alexander Ovechkin is currently more recognizable in America than Khabib Nurmagomedov. Nemkov explained that hockey is widely played by children in America, and all young hockey players know who Ovechkin is. He noted that Ovechkin gained significant fame after breaking Wayne Gretzky's record and continues to set records while remaining in the spotlight. By contrast, Nemkov believes Khabib is less well-known now because he no longer competes and doesn't appear in the news as frequently. The comparison highlights the ongoing visibility of active athletes versus retired ones.