Analysis: Rakhmonov controlled distance, clinch against Garry despite leg kick deficit

A detailed breakdown of Shavkat Rakhmonov's performance against Ian Garry highlights his improvement at mid-range striking compared to his fight with Geoff Neal. Rakhmonov successfully landed single power shots including jabs, overhand rights, left hooks, and spinning backfists while measuring distance effectively. He dominated the first four rounds in the clinch, taking Garry's back and controlling him with underhooks. Rakhmonov became the first UFC fighter to take Garry down in the center of the octagon, achieving this twice and landing ground strikes from top position. However, the analysis notes Rakhmonov's low activity on the outside, throwing almost no leg kicks across four rounds and conceding significant points at long range where Garry excelled. The breakdown scored the middle and close distances for Rakhmonov but acknowledged the fight was close overall, with the fifth round being his only clear mistake when he rushed a takedown and gave up position.