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Karen Darabedyan

Training: It’s been a pretty good camp. A typical day is waking up early and going for a run and then at night doing my MMA training or judo or wrestling training.

When and why did you start training for fighting? Karen's dad has supported his involvement in various sports since age 5. At 17, karate, grappling, and judo all came together, which led to a mixed martial arts fight. This proved Karen's natural talent and provided opportunities to evolve into a well rounded fighter.

What ranks and titles have you held? None

Do you have any heroes? Both mom and dad

What is your favorite technique? Armbar

What does it mean for you to fight in the WEC? Karen sees this fight as a dream come true. It took a lifetime of training and preparation to get here.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? 2 years Glendale Community College, before choosing to make MMA Karen's primary focus

What was your job before you started fighting? None

Most memorable professional fight (who, where, why)? A fight three years ago in the Philippines against Koji Oishi. The coliseum was the same venue where Joe Frazier fought Muhammad Ali in 1975.

What was your most challenging professional fight (against who, when, what was the outcome)? The Philippines fight listed above.

Did you compete in any other sport(s) at college or professional level (what sport, where, how long)? No

Who were your training partners for this fight? My training partners were the same - Manny Gamburyan, Sevak Magakian, Sako Chivichian, Roman Mitchyan

Did you put more emphasis towards a fighting style or adjust your training to prepare for your opponent (what did you do differently/why)? Coming into this fight I haven't really put emphasis on any one aspect of the game, I have trained everything from stand up to the ground.

What, other than WINNING, are you using for motivation for the fight? Other than winning, I use my dad’s memory to motivate me.

What is your favorite thing about this sport? Winning

How long do you see yourself staying in this sport? 10 years