Analysis: Rakhmonov dominated Garry at mid-range and in clinch despite 5th round slip

A detailed tactical review of Shavkat Rakhmonov's performance against Ian Garry reveals progression in mid-range striking and clinch control. Rakhmonov impressed with varied striking including jabs, overhand rights, left hooks, and spinning backfists, landing the best head strikes. He dominated the clinch in rounds 1-4, taking Garry's back from deep underhooks, and became the first UFC fighter to take Garry down in center cage, doing so twice. The analysis notes Rakhmonov controlled distance, pace, and cage positioning throughout. However, minimal leg kick activity on the long-range allowed Garry to outscore him significantly at distance (19.5 to 1.75 points), though Rakhmonov won mid-range (15.75 to 10.25) and close range (18.5 to 11.7). The reviewer scored the fight approximately 40-40 overall but awarded the victory to Rakhmonov based on quality of control and damage to the head, despite the lopsided long-range disadvantage.