Analysis highlights Khabib Nurmagomedov's underrated boxing and jab effectiveness

A detailed analytical breakdown has examined Khabib Nurmagomedov's often-overlooked boxing skills, particularly his jab and mid-range striking. Justin Gaethje previously praised Khabib's jab as highly effective due to his level-changing ability, forcing opponents to consistently shift their hips back. Statistical analysis of Khabib's final five UFC fights shows he won or matched the mid-range striking battle in four of five contests. Against Al Iaquinta, Khabib landed 77 significant strikes at mid-range compared to Iaquinta's 23, described as possibly the biggest jab-based domination in UFC title fight history. He also outboxed Edson Barboza 25-11, went nearly even with Conor McGregor despite a third-round deficit, split evenly with Dustin Poirier, and outboxed Gaethje 14-12.25 while bloodying Gaethje's nose with jabs. The analysis concludes that Khabib's mid-range boxing was essential to his pressure-fighting style and ability to set up takedowns against the cage.