Analysis highlights Khabib's underrated boxing and middle-distance striking skill

A detailed analysis examined Khabib Nurmagomedov's often-overlooked middle-distance boxing ability, which proved crucial to his undefeated career. Justin Gaethje previously praised Khabib's jab effectiveness, noting how his level-change threats forced opponents to constantly adjust their positioning. Statistical analysis of Khabib's final five UFC fights showed he won or held even on the middle distance against elite strikers including Gaethje (14-12.25), Dustin Poirier (6-6), and nearly even with Conor McGregor (16-19), while dominating Edson Barboza (25-11) and Al Iaquinta (77-23). The analysis concluded that Khabib's striking ability was essential for implementing his wrestling game plan, allowing him to safely pressure opponents and set up his dominant cage wrestling. Without this boxing foundation, the author argues Khabib would have faced significantly greater difficulty and likely suffered at least one loss during his career.