UFC 106 Preview: The Main Card

Karo Parisyan vs. Dustin Hazelett

The Breakdown: Those who like MMA love this fight because Hazelett and Parisyan promise to deliver one of the most entertaining grappling battles of the year. Parisyan has been all but impotent from top control lately, but he can be drawn out of his shell by aggressive grapplers, and Hazelett brings with him one of the most dynamic jiu-jitsu styles in the game.

Trying to ride out a top control special will not be an option for Parisyan, and rolling around with Hazelett looks like a dicey proposition for anyone not named Roger Gracie. Trading strikes does not appear to be much of a choice, either, as Hazelett has made strides in his kickboxing. Parisyan, on the other hand, remains content to lob inaccurate overhands in the hope of someday scoring a knockout.

Let us hope Parisyan gets in touch with his inner Gene LeBell because his conservative ways will not do him much good when Hazelett throws the kitchen sink at him.

The X-Factor: Trying to end fights in spectacular fashion means putting one’s self in harm’s way, and Hazelett has cost himself fights in the past with his relentless aggression. Parisyan may not be submitting guys left and right, but he remains a dangerous grappler and more than capable of taking advantage of any mistakes Hazelett may make.

Striking the right balance between his natural style and remaining cognizant of the threat his opponent poses will be critical for Hazelett, who finds himself on the cusp on contending for the welterweight crown. Trying to leapfrog the entire division by going for something foolish on someone like Parisyan, however, will only end with his run to the title taking a potentially permanent detour.

* * *

The Bottom Line: Hazelett is flat-out better at everything than Parisyan, save for takedowns, and those will be of little solace for the Armenian judoka as he struggles to stave off the submission salvos thrown his way. Parisyan has proven near impossible to submit. Do not expect Hazelett to manage that feat, but a unanimous decision win will be well within reach.