Nick Diaz vs. Karo Parisyan

Nick Diaz vs. Karo Parisyan

They first fought at UFC 49 in 2004 with Parisyan taking a split decision on what was a very close and extremely entertaining fight. This was one of the most technically sound and exciting grappling ever seen in an MMA fight. Both fighters going for submissions, reverses, taking each other’s back, escapes. It really showed how high level both of these guys are with regards to their technique.

Diaz proved to be the more polished striker with Karo throwing wild looping shots and Karo proved to be relentless in his take downs. All in all, it was a war.

Since that fight Diaz has gone 13-4-(1 nc) and has won his last 7 fights, all in impressive fashion against stellar opponents. Parisyan has not been as active going 7-2-(1 nc) since the same time. One of his losses was another all out war with Diego Sanchez.

At UFC 94 Karo beat Kim Dong-Hyun via Split Decision but the fight was later overturned after Parisyan tested positive for banned painkillers in post-fight drug test. Kao claimed these were medications he was taking for his chronic back pain.

Parisyan was due to fight again at UFC 106 against Dustin Hazelett but unfortunately pulled out of the fight and did so the day before the event. Needless to say this did not sit well with Dana White and the UFC eventually parted ways with Parisyan.

Karo has not been active for about a year and a half citing the need to take care of “personal problems” he was dealing with. He competed on July 10 in Sydney Australia for the Impact FC organization and won via submission (rear naked choke) choke over Ben Mortimer at 4:18 of the second round. He is trying to rebuild his career, has stated he is too young to retire and it would appear he would like once again to be in the mix as one of the top Welterweights.

Assuming he could turn things around, it would be great to see these two have a sequel to their epic first match.

By Rich Serpa

Jul 11, 2010 3 comments Share

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Judo vs BJJ. I loved first fight. I would love to see rematch. Hope Karo get his stuff togther

by R. Suchocki (Jul 18, 2010)

The first fight was great but I thought Diaz won.

by Angelo (Jul 23, 2010)

I agree, really good fight. Real technical on both sides. I also think Diaz got robbed on that. They probablhy gave it to Karo on on account of the take downs. There was some beautiful throws by both guys. I think they are two diferent fighters now. Karo's confidence is not what it was and he has not been as active. I think if the fought again it would be a much different fight with Diaz winning.

by Coop (Jul 23, 2010)

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