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

A detailed analytical breakdown examined Khabib Nurmagomedov's often-overlooked mid-range boxing ability, which enabled him to maintain pressure while staying relatively safe and transitioning to wrestling. Justin Gaethje previously praised Khabib's jab, noting its effectiveness was amplified by his level-changing ability that forced opponents to shift their hips defensively. Statistical analysis of Khabib's final five UFC fights showed he won or drew the mid-range striking battle in four of five bouts: dominating Edson Barboza 25-11, crushing Al Iaquinta 77-23 in what may be the biggest jabbing performance in UFC title fight history, narrowly losing to Conor McGregor 16-19 (despite scoring a knockdown), tying Dustin Poirier 6-6, and edging Gaethje 14-12.25. The analysis emphasized that Khabib's strong boxing on the mid-range was essential for closing distance to initiate his elite cage wrestling, and that even elite strikers like McGregor, Poirier, and Gaethje struggled to consistently out-box him. The piece concluded by suggesting Khabib would have dominated the welterweight division against fighters like Woodley, Covington, Edwards, Masvidal, and Thompson.