Analysis: Rakhmonov dominated Garry at mid-range and clinch despite losing distance

A detailed breakdown of Shavkat Rakhmonov's fight with Ian Garry highlights the Kazakh fighter's progress and control in most areas. Rakhmonov impressed with improved mid-range striking, consistently landing jabs, overhand rights, left hooks, and spinning backfists on Garry. He dominated the clinch in the first four rounds and became the first UFC fighter to successfully take Garry down in the center of the octagon, doing so twice. Rakhmonov demonstrated high-quality control over the fight except in round five, winning the mid-range battle 15.75 to 10.25 and the clinch 18.5 to 11.7, though Garry dominated at long range 19.5 to 1.75 with leg kicks. The analysis notes Rakhmonov's limited low-kick activity as a concern but credits him with better quality control and more damaging strikes to the head, ultimately scoring it narrowly for Rakhmonov despite near-equal total points.