I was going to say that its not about how hard you hit but about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward...
Hands up, chin down. I find keeping my hands against my head (instead of a gap between) keeps punches from being as dramatic. Also, try to relax ASAP. Being nervous can sap your energy, and you don't want to gas out. Oh.. and work the body early.
i never realized how much people never read through a post before commenting. the fights over mates, so shut up already
decide for yourself. draw against champion kickboxer in debut while disgustingly underperforming, it could have been worse.