Build a textbook check that transfers damage back to the kicker without breaking your stance.
Meet the kick with the hard part of the shin, not the knee or ankleTurn the hip and knee slightly outward on the checkHands never drop when the leg lifts +1 more
Take away the kick's power range by stepping inside its arc and answering in the pocket.
Step toward the kicker, not away — range is safetyTime the step on their weight shift, not on the kick itselfKeep your chin down behind the shoulder as you counter +1 more
Turn their favorite weapon into your best scoring window by catching the kick and answering while they stand on one leg.
Catch with the arm, not the bent-over facePin the leg to your ribs so it cannot be retractedStep forward as you counter so they cannot skip away +1 more
Damage the leg they stand on so every kick they throw costs their own base.
Kick the leg that carries their weight — the one on the floorStrike through the calf, not across the shinKeep your hands high; their hands are free while they kick +1 more
Combine the defensive check with an exit angle so you never stand in front of the kicker trading.
The angle is part of the counter, not an afterthoughtPivot off the lead foot after you land, not beforeNever back straight out of kicking range — go sideways +1 more