Footwork

Simply maneuver the Movement stick in any direction to steer your fighter around the Octagon.

Footwork is especially important to strikers, because it helps them avoid attacks and set up their own punishing combos. Use footwork to “find your range” and keep the opponent at the desired distance.

Step

Flick the Movement stick to quickly step in any direction. A short but dramatic movement, stepping is an important part of the stand-up game. Step to quickly slip into and out of striking distance.

Step away from opponents to avoid their strikes and quickly move out of range.

Step toward close-range opponents to shove them back and create space. This is useful against clinch specialists and overly aggressive foes.

Step to either side to circle around the opponent and “slip” (avoid) their strikes.

Even if a strike connects, stepping away from it will considerably reduce its damage. Beware of stepping into strikes, however, as this significantly increases the damage you sustain.

It’s generally a good idea to step and circle toward the opponent’s lead leg, and away from his dominant hand.

Dash

Click and hold the Movement stick to brazenly rush forward, quickly closing the distance on your opponent. Throw a strike while dashing to attempt a devastating dash strike—like step strikes, these are always considered strong strikes and can instantly rock or KO the opponent.

Be aware that dashing exposes your fighter to great risk, however, as the opponent’s successful counters will connect with far greater force.

Switch Stance

Click in the Clinch/Grapple stick to toggle your fighter’s stance between orthodox (left hand forward) and southpaw (right hand forward). This can mix up your opponent’s footwork and throw them off their game, creating opportunities for skilled strikers to capitalize.