Airwar in the 80s WP vs NATO

A lot importance is given to the dogfighting capability of fighters in the 70s and 80s
In airwar like Vietnam it was probably important since there were relatively few enemy fighters , even in the 1991 gulf war enemy airforce put up minimal resistance
But will it also hold true to the same degree in the hypothetical scenario between masses of aircraft on both sides in a WP NATO clash ?

I mean aircombat by the 80s esp in such a scenario not as simple as one fighter against another,they are so many other factors which makes individual dogfights less important.

What would likely be the most common cause of losses amongst fighters and strike planes in a scenario

1-Shot down by other fighters using WVR weapons cannons/missiles
2-Shot down by other fighters using BVR weapons
3-Shot down by SAMs

Any other thoughts /comments on 80s era air war.Also if anyone can recommend a good source for it ?
Thanks