Analysis highlights Khabib Nurmagomedov's underrated striking and jab effectiveness

A detailed breakdown examines Khabib Nurmagomedov's often-overlooked boxing skills and mid-range striking ability, which allowed him to maintain pressure while remaining relatively safe and closing distance for wrestling. Justin Gaethje previously praised Khabib's jab effectiveness, noting his ability to change levels made opponents constantly adjust their hips. Statistical analysis of Khabib's final five UFC fights shows he either won or went even on the mid-range striking exchange in four of five bouts. He landed 11 hard jabs against Gaethje, 6 against McGregor, 40 against Iaquinta, 15 against Barboza, and 3 against Poirier. The analysis concludes that Khabib's striking, while enhanced by wrestling threats, was genuinely high-level in pure MMA boxing terms. His ability to control distance through striking was essential for setting up his dominant cage wrestling, and without this skill, his career might have included losses.