The Counter/Parry styles don't match up against a highly offensive style like Rage (he'll just smash through them),
Not completely accurate. A well geared Counter Attack can be successful vs a Rage gladiator, unless the Rage is decked out in ultra heavy strength or attack gear, which then just becomes a game of who has the best gear. However he can get through a couple rounds without heavy damage when up vs a non stacked Rage. It just wont work for the duration of the fight because some of the Rage's have massive damage hits with the 2 handed weapons, and only need a couple good whacks to end it. If they are using lighter weapons it can be done.

Keep in mind, a high activity Rage with high bloodlust will not always get accurate shots or even make decent contact on a fighter with good agility and good defensive skills. Also keep in mind Counter Attack is not truly a defensive style like a parry, I have seen that it can be as offensive as the opponent is.

A parry on the otherhand will indeed end up getting smashed eventually, usually due to just being overpowered. Although I have seen them doing a little better as the levels increase.