UFC 143 Predictions: 3 Reasons Why Carlos Condit Can Pull off the Upset

As Nick Diaz and Carlos Condit are prepared to face off in the main event at UFC 143, "The Natural Born Killer" has become somewhat of an afterthought, as all the attention is focused on Georges St-Pierre.

St-Pierre is currently nursing a knee injury, however, that hasn't stopped him from still having a major presence on the card, leaving many to write off Condit in the process.

Although most fans would look at Diaz and St-Pierre as a more marketable bout, Condit still brings necessary tools into the matchup that could lead him to score the upset and look ahead to a future showdown with the current welterweight champion.

Here are three reasons why Carlos Condit can pull off the upset.

3. More Well-Rounded Striker

While Diaz utilizes a unorthodox style of striking that eventually overwhelms his opponents, Condit possesses a more well-rounded attack that could potentially give his opponent some problems.

The 28-year-old is versatile in his attack, as he tends to throw a lot more combinations with his knees and elbows. His fast, precise strikes damage his opponents instantaneously which allows him to finish the bout shortly after.

His most recent win over Kim Dong-Hyun at UFC 132 shows just how unpredictable and dangerous his striking can be when he is able to find an opening at the right time.

If he can utilize all of his weapons while attacking Diaz on the feet, Condit could prove to be a formidable threat.

2. Aggressive Style

If there is one thing that has kept Condit relevant among the elite competitors in the welterweight division is his aggressive fighting style.

Relentless in his approach, Condit's killer instinct can not be outdone and it has helped him finish the last 26 of his 27 opponents via KO/TKO.

Perhaps what's even more impressive is the amount of pressure Condit pushes onto his opponents so early into the bout, while still remaining technical and accurate in his approach. 

Diaz is notorious for starting slow and being patient in the opening rounds and it might be Condit's only chance to gain any sort of advantage in finishing his opponent early in the fight.

1. Underdog Role

There has been a lack of acknowledgement regarding Carlos Condit heading into UFC 143, but the former WEC welterweight champion doesn't seem to be bothered by it and has embraced his underdog role. 

This is the exact attitude he needs in order to motivate himself and walk into this bout composed and focused against Diaz.

All media attention has turned a blind eye to Condit in hopes of witnessing Diaz continue his dominance in the welterweight division en route to a long-awaited title bout with St-Pierre later this year.

If Condit can capitalize on the opportunity and not lose focus of his game plan heading into Saturday night, he will have a legitimate shot of upsetting Diaz and earning a shot against the champion.