Vadim Nemkov Believes Ovechkin More Recognizable in America Than Khabib

Former Bellator light heavyweight champion Vadim Nemkov has stated that he believes Alexander Ovechkin is currently more recognizable in America than Khabib Nurmagomedov. In an interview, Nemkov explained that many American children grow up playing hockey and know who Ovechkin is, particularly after he broke Wayne Gretzky's record and continues to set new milestones while remaining in the spotlight. Nemkov suggested that Khabib, having retired from active competition, no longer generates the same level of media attention and news coverage. The comparison highlights the different trajectories of the two Russian sports icons, with Ovechkin still actively competing at the highest level while Khabib has moved into coaching and promotion. Nemkov noted that hockey participation among youth in America is comparable to Russia in terms of popularity.