Analysis: Khabib's underrated boxing and jab dominated opponents on feet

A detailed breakdown reveals that Khabib Nurmagomedov's boxing skills, particularly his jab, were significantly underrated during his career. Justin Gaethje praised Khabib's effective jab, noting how his level changes made opponents constantly adjust their hip positioning. Statistical analysis of Khabib's final five fights shows he won or matched his opponents on the middle distance in four of five bouts, including competitive exchanges against elite strikers like Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Gaethje. Against Al Iaquinta, Khabib landed a dominant 77-23 advantage in significant strikes, while his jab opened up entries for takedowns against Gaethje despite absorbing a brutal left hand. The analysis concludes that Khabib's pressure and ability to maintain dominance on the feet were crucial to setting up his wrestling game, suggesting he could have succeeded at welterweight against fighters like Woodley, Covington, Edwards, Masvidal, and Thompson.