Analysis highlights Khabib Nurmagomedov's underrated striking and jab effectiveness

A detailed technical analysis has examined Khabib Nurmagomedov's often-overlooked boxing skills, particularly his jab and mid-range striking. Justin Gaethje previously praised Khabib's jab, noting its effectiveness due to his level-change threats forcing opponents to constantly adjust their positioning. Statistical breakdowns of Khabib's final five UFC fights show he landed 11 hard jabs against Gaethje, 6 against McGregor, 40 against Al Iaquinta, 15 against Edson Barboza, and 3 against Dustin Poirier. The analysis used a flexible scoring system for significant mid-range strikes and concluded that Khabib won or matched his opponents on the feet in four of five fights: dominating Barboza 25-11, overwhelming Iaquinta 77-23, slightly losing to McGregor 16-19, tying Poirier 6-6, and edging Gaethje 14-12.25. The piece argues that Khabib's striking skill was essential to his wrestling success, as he needed to close distance safely and effectively pressure opponents toward the cage where his grappling was strongest. The analysis concludes by speculating that Khabib would have dominated the welterweight division against fighters like Woodley, Covington, Edwards, Masvidal, and Thompson.