Analysis examines Khabib Nurmagomedov's underrated mid-range boxing skills

A detailed technical analysis examines Khabib Nurmagomedov's often-overlooked striking ability on the mid-range. The analysis includes statistical breakdowns of Khabib's last five fights, showing he won or competed evenly on the mid-range against elite strikers. Against Edson Barboza, he dominated 25-11 in significant mid-range strikes; against Al Iaquinta, 77-23; against Conor McGregor, 16-19; against Dustin Poirier, 6-6; and against Justin Gaethje, 14-12.25. Justin Gaethje specifically praised Khabib's jab, noting its effectiveness was enhanced by Khabib's ability to change levels and threaten takedowns. The analysis argues that Khabib's mid-range striking was crucial to his wrestling success, allowing him to maintain pressure safely and set up takedowns against the cage. The piece concludes by speculating on how Khabib would have performed at welterweight against fighters like Woodley, Covington, Edwards, Masvidal, Thompson, and Usman.