Analysis highlights Khabib's underrated boxing and jab effectiveness in MMA

A detailed breakdown has examined Khabib Nurmagomedov's often-overlooked boxing skills, particularly his jab and mid-range striking. The analysis notes that Justin Gaethje praised Khabib's jab as highly effective due to his level-changing ability, forcing opponents to constantly adjust their positioning. Statistical review of Khabib's last five fights shows he won or competed evenly on the mid-range distance in four of them: dominating Edson Barboza 25-11, crushing Al Iaquinta 77-23, competing closely with Conor McGregor 16-19, tying Dustin Poirier 6-6, and edging Gaethje 14-12.25. The analysis emphasizes that Khabib's striking allowed him to maintain pressure safely and set up his wrestling entries more effectively. His jab opened cuts on Gaethje's nose and helped control distance against elite strikers. The breakdown concludes that without his mid-range boxing skills, Khabib would have faced significantly more difficulty in his championship reign, as he needed striking proficiency to safely close distance and push opponents to the cage where his wrestling dominated.