Analysis: Shavkat Rakhmonov Showed Improvement in Controversial Ian Garry Fight

A detailed re-watch analysis of Shavkat Rakhmonov's bout with Ian Garry highlights several areas where Rakhmonov impressed despite controversy over the decision. The analysis credits Rakhmonov with improved mid-range striking compared to his fight with Geoff Neal, dominance in the clinch for four rounds, becoming the first UFC fighter to score takedowns on Garry in the center of the octagon (doing so twice), and overall superior control of the fight except in round five. However, concerns were raised about Rakhmonov's lack of leg kick activity, conceding significant points on the outside distance. The breakdown scored the fight essentially even at 40-40 in total points, with Garry scoring heavily with leg kicks while Rakhmonov landed more damaging head strikes and controlled the pace. The analysis concludes Rakhmonov won via rounds and overall fight control, but emphasizes he cannot afford to give up so many points at distance at the elite level.