Analysis highlights Khabib Nurmagomedov's underrated boxing and jab effectiveness

A detailed breakdown examines Khabib Nurmagomedov's often-overlooked boxing skills, particularly his jab and mid-range striking. Justin Gaethje praised Khabib's jab, noting its effectiveness was enhanced by his ability to change levels and threaten takedowns. Statistical analysis of Khabib's final five UFC fights shows he did not lose the striking exchanges on the outside in four of those bouts, landing significant jabs against top strikers including 40 against Al Iaquinta, 15 against Edson Barboza, and causing Gaethje's nose to bleed from jabs in their fight. Against elite boxers like Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Gaethje, Khabib held his own or won the striking exchanges, using his jab to maintain pressure safely and create opportunities for takedowns. The analysis concludes that Khabib's mid-range boxing was crucial to his success, allowing him to close distance safely and set up his dominant cage wrestling. The author suggests Khabib would have dominated the welterweight division against fighters like Tyron Woodley, Colby Covington, Leon Edwards, Jorge Masvidal, and Stephen Thompson.