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 Khabib Nurmagomedov. Nemkov explained that hockey is widely played from childhood in the United States, and young hockey players all know who Ovechkin is. He noted that Ovechkin gained massive fame after breaking Wayne Gretzky's record and continues to set records while staying in the spotlight. In contrast, Nemkov believes Khabib is no longer as well-known or prominent in the news since his retirement. The comparison highlights the different levels of ongoing mainstream visibility between an active major league athlete and a retired MMA fighter.