Analysis: Khabib Nurmagomedov's underrated striking on the feet

A detailed breakdown examined Khabib Nurmagomedov's often-overlooked boxing and mid-range striking abilities. The analysis reviewed Khabib's last five UFC fights, noting that he did not lose the striking exchanges on the feet in four of them. Against Edson Barboza, Al Iaquinta, Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje, Khabib demonstrated effective jabs and mid-range striking that allowed him to maintain pressure and set up his takedowns. Justin Gaethje specifically praised Khabib's jab, noting its effectiveness due to Khabib's ability to change levels. The piece argues that Khabib's striking, while not elite in pure boxing terms, was highly effective in MMA context and crucial to his ability to close distance and impose his wrestling. The author suggests Khabib would have dominated the welterweight division against fighters like Tyron Woodley, Colby Covington, Leon Edwards, Jorge Masvidal, and Stephen Thompson.