And is there any chance “The Heat” can become a contender again in today’s UFC welterweight division?

“Somehow I knew I’d get back in, at least I hoped I would. What Dana said was in the heat of the moment. He felt we were friends and that I’d backstabbed him. Thank God he changed his mind. He told me to get a fight under my belt. He told me to get my life back on track and that’s what I did. My issues had to do with my anxiety problems and panic attacks. Painkillers were thrown out there, but that wasn’t it. People made these accusations because I’d been popped for medication (months before). I’d taken two pain pills the morning of my fight for a torn hamstring and didn’t think much of it. Every fighter I know takes pain medication like it’s M&Ms. I was the unlucky one who only took it the day of the fight without even thinking about it. I think the UFC knows I still have something I can accomplish in the cage. They know that I can become a contender again and I will.”

Despite a lifetime ban from UFC President Dana White following multiple infractions, former welterweight standout Karo Parisyan is getting another shot at UFC stardom after a successful return against Ben Mortimer under the Impact FC banner in Australia last July. The Armenian tells Sherdog.com that he’s been able to overcome — or at least contain — the pre-fight anxiety attacks that led to his Octagon troubles in the past. Are fans convinced he’s on the level? And can he fight his way back into contention in one of the sport’s deepest divisions?

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