The next moment, Asher stepped in, throwing a powerful reverse punch aimed at Alexei's solar plexus. It was brutal, precise, designed to end the match early.
Alexei deflected it at the last moment, redirecting the force and countering with a sharp elbow strike.
Asher barely dodged, his smirk widening. "Now this is getting fun."
The crowd leaned forward, breaths held.
"Fast exchanges already?!"
"They are both testing each other!"
Asher changed his strategy. His footwork became unpredictable, his movements sharper. Unlike traditional karate, Gigangum's style was wild yet controlled, unpredictable yet effective.
He feinted a jab, making Alexei shift his guard. In that split second, Asher struck, a spinning heel kick aimed straight for Alexei's temple.
The air whooshed as the attack came dangerously close.
Alexei ducked.
Then, with surgical precision, he struck, his fist connecting with Asher's exposed ribcage.
Thud!
Asher's smirk disappeared for a fraction of a second.
