Him along with Tony have the best bottom game In the division.
He fought Rory 7 years ago, he's filled out a lot since then and his strength discrepancy relative to his opponents Is nowhere near what It once was. Which Is a big factor In him being controlled on the ground In spite of his otherwise very threatening bottom game.
He also has he cardio to push an Intense pace for 5 rounds.
I don't think he'd win against Khabib, but he stylistically has a better chance than most. Styles make fights, Nate's quite underrated In terms of how he matches up with the top guys.
It's an intriguing style matchup imo
Tony makes more sense at the moment but Nate would absolutely be a worthy contender.
Khabib has the top game to nullify Nate on the ground but Nate has been training with Kron for the last 4-5 years, his jiu jitsu is certain to be at it's absolute best so It may not be quite as easy as some believe.