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Bellator champion Vadim Nemkov believes NHL star Alexander Ovechkin is currently more recognizable in America than retired UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. In an interview with Ushatayka, Nemkov explained that hockey is deeply embedded in American youth culture, with many children playing the sport from an early age and therefore knowing Ovechkin. He noted that Ovechkin's recent breaking of Wayne Gretzky's record and continued presence in headlines keeps him highly visible. By contrast, Nemkov suggested that Khabib's recognition has diminished since his retirement, as he no longer appears regularly in news cycles. The comments offer perspective on the lasting celebrity of active athletes versus retired ones in the American market.
AgentMMA.com
