3 WRONG Things People THINK in STREET FIGHTS 

Avoid conflict whenever possible. Defend yourself when necessary.

As someone who has been around a bit, I am still astonished when I see someone trying to pick a fight with a stranger they know nothing about.

"Never assume that someone will come to your rescue" - that is a powerful & important realization.

Jocko Willink is a former Navy SEAL and said his best weapon in a street fight is his feet: WALK AWAY (if you can). The other person could have a gun or other weapon, and even if you win the fight, you can be arrested and/or sued. Avoid fighting when you can but be ready to fight if cornered.

People must realize that real evil exists and be prepared for the worst.

Mark: you put your finger squarely on a lesson I was taught as a 20 year old cop in 1974. A lot of people in this world are no strangers to violence; they live it almost daily. The rest of us, well, don't. What might shock most people is just another "day at the office" for them. You MUST be prepared mentally when you come across someone who simply doesn't care.

If you have the energy to fight over a parking space, you have the energy to walk an additional 50 meters to get where you’re going. If you’ve got the time to fight, you’re not running late for anything you truly value.

After recently being attacked by a group of thugs, I realised how precious life is and how important it is to avoid physical confrontations where possible. On my side of the fight, I ended up with glass bottles smashed on my head and even though I am physically okay, that event has changed me mentally and my thoughts and anxiety are horrible and I am in fear. I could have ended up not so lucky and had permanent brain damage or even died. I do have days when I am dizzy still. On the other side of the fight, the person who bottled me will most likely end up in prison for at least a few years. Just from a decision to attack me because he was drunk, he will have years taken away from him, his future of finding work will be affected and his family, friends social life too.

Man Thank you! My Ex GF is a hot head and as I keep telling her she’s going to get herself injured or killed. I refuse to even go anywhere with her at this point. The Walmart parking example is her in a nutshell and I saw it happen with her children in the car to boot. Basically someone took the space she wanted, she hops out the car yelling at this woman she doesn’t know but the woman yells back. Me being from L.A. I know how this can end horribly and my ex basically says it’s more important to get her point across than think about the safety of her children. These kind of people will not only get themselves messed up, they’ll also get those around them hurt as well.

Lots of great info. I'm in my mid 60's now and I've carried S&W 40 cal for years. When I went through the police academy 35 years ago, the one line I've always remembered was, "Dead men tell no tales." Stay safe.

I love your common sense approach to “mindset.” I like avoiding conflict as much as possible, while being as prepared as I’m able.

I was walking with my family in a sketchy area. I spotted a guy walking towards us and he was drifting a little sideways at me. I didn’t make eye contact, and as soon as he was about to pass, he threw his shoulder at mine, and I dodged the contact. It was a large walkway and no other people around. I dodged a situation by being aware and noticing him right away. None of my family members even noticed he was there.

"That's not a knife, this is a knife 🗡" -Crocodile Dundee

Here's how I feel , and it's because of passed experiences. Your best bet is to WALK AWAY . DONT ENGAGE. DONT LOOK AT THEM. PLAY DUMB. IF ALL ELSE FAILS DEFEND YOURSELF ACCORDINGLY😊

Unfortunately, many of us learn this lesson the hard way. It’s far better to de-escalate a potentially violent situation. Great advice! Thanks

I really appreciate the way you put this about people not being like you. I've been saying for decades and living by this "Don't bank on other people's restraint."

Wow i love the advice about pulling in other people. Never thought about bringing them in whether physically pulling them into it or verbally... For anyone that hasnt experienced this, the bystander effect is so much worse than you could ever imagine in street fights. People will watch you get jumped 20 vs 1 in broad daylight and wont do squat about it. This has happened to me and there was circa 100 people around watching confused and/or scared. No one, and i mean no one gets involved. The only time someone may help is if they are a very experienced fighter. But even then if a weapon gets pulled out they are going to be very reluctant. Youd be lucky if someone even called the police to help you. Even luckier if they yell out "stoppp police is coming" or similar. Moral of the story: people will do nothing to help. If you already knew this but haven't experienced it yet, it's far worse than you can even imagine.

Well, you hit at least 3 points for me. 1) Christmas at a big UK shopping Arcade/mall someone took the parking spot I was already waiting for, and due to the time of year took a long time to find. It was how the driver pulled out of the parking spot that enabled someone else to park in the spot before I could. I got out of my car and confronted the male driver who was with his wife. Keeping it short, I dared him to get out and leave his car here. His wife was saying it's first come first served and did not want her husband to move. They could see I was already waiting for the spot, and seeing how angry I was he decided I was right and pulled out, and I thanked him for agreeing to move, but I must admit I was also willing to have a physical confrontation with the man over a parking spot.. 2) Working as a doorman on a bar, I was working with a 5 foot 8 inch medium built man. Not much to look at, but he was a martial arts expert, black belt with 4 or 6 dans and ran his own martial arts school. 3) An old man I used to play poker with, everyone just called him granddad, that was his nickname at the casino. One night youths (late teens/early twenties) tried to mug/rob the old man. What the youths did not know is Grandad teaches martial arts, and I'm sure the two youths changed their profession after granddad dealt with them and they ran away. In fact I think one friend had to help the other one as they made their escape to safety.

Soo true, when I was young I assumed that everyone else was just like me and would always be confused but eventually I realized the truth of the individual+nature+nurture= thing

True, the other day this old man, van driver was starting trouble and kept following me, I got out my car and there was 2 people around they did nothing, I got my boxing guard and he kept coming for me, I shielded myself behind the other 2 people. I can fight and I'm strong, but I dont know my ability to take a hit, the plonker tried to round house kick me and fell on the floor, I just walked away got into my car and drove off as people started calling the police .

"Never underestimate your opponent" Bruce Lee, used this quote in one of his movies. It is true today as is was back then.

As an armed security officer for a lot of years I've learned the hard way to never judge a book by its cover...always expect the worst from people and don't let your guard because it's usually the one that you aren't worried about that surprises you

You're a very smart bloke. Thanks for hipping people up. Peace!

Fight science is a lesson in psychology, which, of course, will help you to defend yourself. Thanks for your excellent videos. Always a pleasure watching them

Love your content. Great advice as always. Avoid conflict if possible. Even if you are defending yourself you can go to jail. I have a felony assault on my record defending myself against 4 guy's. I had to bottle one of them. Now I'm the bad guy.

I’ve been giving this same advice to ppl my whole life pretty much you just never know the level of violence a stranger is willing to go to and in those situations you have to meet there violence with overwhelming force and kill or be killed dec

This is a great video on fight psychology ! A lot of people think the offender thinks just like them on violence. They don't. Sage advice.

Yep, it's all about seeing how the other person moves. In my younger days I was in loads of fights. It's now second nature to watch how people move.

Always articulate, without flash, thoughtful. Injecting a dose of reality into street fighting. Either get away or subdue. Subduing may not be easy, getting away may not be easy. So... Focus on reading situations and preventing disaster. Good stuff!

Some of the most valuable and insightful self-defense advice out there. Well-expressed.

1:19 I always think of this in the context of LEOs. Once, a police officer walked into a movie theater I was in, and, instead of feeling safe, all I could think was "there is a man with a gun standing behind me..."

Being aware, switched on and scanning in all situations, projects confidence and makes you a hard target because you are ready for anything. Great insights 💪😎👍

This is why I treat every threat as life threatening, I don't let people get within reaching distance. If you are that close to me I'm going to strike first and strike hard with no mercy, Cobra Kai never die,lol.

You said something that I hadn't ever thought of, the way you would make other people get involved if you had to....very interesting but it makes sense, you're increasing your odds if you make someone else a part of the interaction....unless your shield turns on you 😂

I really enjoy you videos. You take a psychological approach to help us understand why things happen and how to intelligently defend yourself or even better how to avoid the situation. Thanks

Thank you for this. You can’t rescue others, if you can’t rescue yourself. Which I why I carry a tourniquet. Professionals are predictable, but the world is full of amateurs. As a 72 year old who has been training Krav Maga for 3 years, I agree with everything you just said. ❤

Your first point is literally ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT LIFE LESSONS/PERSPECTIVES TO UNDERSTAND & EMBODY DISCERNINGLY...

I’m 16 and have instinctively devooped these thought processes

This advice is more valuable and honest then a thousand ridiculous "how to" and "self defense" vids i see plastered all over YT. Avoid physical conflict when possible. When its not, assume nothing.

I do everything I can to avoid interaction and contact with these people. However, if someone expresses ill intent or hostility, and they come within striking distance, I’ll strike first.

Very true. There was a young women in my city who I used to see from time to time. She would argue with strangers and was pretty aggressive. She once did that with a loner type guy at a bus shelter. The guy left and came back and had a gun he got from his home, and she shot and killed her. She had no idea who she was dealing with. It is why I am polite in public. Doesn't mean you have to be a pushover. Btw, I think the guy was from a S.E. European culture, from his name, and that played a role.

Always enjoy your videos. The common sense approach to different situations you talk about are really helpful. Hope everyone has a great day.

I wonder if the more disciplined fighter will, by virtue of a disciplined nature, also be less likely to seek out random fights to begin with. I often see very loud and arrogant people present themselves in an aggressive way yet quickly shrink when the circumstances change.

I have a friend who's a good guy and has been often picked on or attacked throughout the years because of his 5 foot 5 size and being completely under estimated. Little do they know that he will never back down or walk away and has the heart of a honey badger! HAS Had over 50 fights .never lost and he's taken down giants. He never starts them but he sure does finish them!

Avoid Street Fights Everyday Because I'm So Glad That The Lord Got Me Out of it in Jesus Name Amen Amen 🙏🏽

Your best video so far. 'No context; only "what's happening now?"' Paying attention to the answer to this question can keep you alive. Thank you.

Excellent advice. Common sense, which most forget, under alarming circumstances.

Ahhh as usual, very good content sir! However may I add that if a well coordinated person moves like they are not, that'll take it even to another level 🙏

I'm always ready. Never assume anyone isn't potentially dangerous

I have been learning from your amazing wisdom and common sense approach to self defense for years. Your training is the best for middle-age guys like myself.

I won't even go to convenience stores at night. Even in my small hometown, always fist fights, shouting matches. Robberies too, though i've never seen one, are on news all the time. In Vegas often with a shooting to go with it. Avoiding them seems to avoid more trouble than some bars and clubs with good security. I'll take the time and go to a full size grocery store or just wait rather than go to a 7/11 at midnight etc.

Wise words. Self defense is good but showing a gun does amazing things to deflate an aggressive ego.

I’ve worked security for years and also trained martial arts for years and think this channel has the best real-world self-defense and combat information I’ve seen on RU-vid so far.

I just love this channel it covers so much more than the average and really in my eyes can keep you alive, thanks Mark once again. Just a shame i dont have social media to speak.

When I was younger I would regularly fall victim to bouts of rage. During one incident, I jumped out of a car and walked home while thinking "I hope someone messes with me. I will hurt them." I was young and hated my life at the time. I didn't care what the future held and I didn't think I had a future. Luckily I didn't hurt anyone. I think back on that moment as a day that could have ruined mine or someone else's whole life. Now I have a family and am a happy adult. Don't ruin your life over something stupid.

Extremely good advice. Be unpredictable. Know how to move, fake one way, notice their reaction move away. Distract with weak appearance or posture, fear in your eyes then strike eyes, throat, liver, nuts... You use the element of surprise, don't allow them to. Situational awareness above, behind, beside, in front. If you can't anticipate, you can't defend. "Never start a fight with an old man, because if he doesn't feel like fighting, he'll just kill you." forgot who said that.

I've listened to this gentleman before, He is the real deal. He really knows what he is talking about

Thank you Dr. Phillips, for yet another amazing, insightful, and expert video. I love your analysis of how to navigate the world with a mind to threats, personal safety, and protection strategies. Please keep up the fantastic work bringing the psychological aspect to real-world applications of your teaching’s. Love what you’re doing for all of us.

full awareness always whatever you are doing and wherever you are, avoid conflict and escape is the best option and de escalate and defend yourself when cornered, emotional control for rational decisions. There is no replay in life. stay safe always.

Your wisdom and knowledge are right on the money. Always loved your channel. Keep the lessons coming please.

Thanks! I have taught my five children the Rules of Stupid. Thanks for sharing this insightful information. I am retired military and know how to "engage" the threat. But my best response is avoid and deescalate and only engage when necessary. Cell phone and such devices have distracted so many people, making them victims. Semper Fi.

Good advice! Always a pleasure watching your videos. Can count on you to for practical and intuitive perspective on real world situations.

You are awesome Doctor. Thank you for your knowledge and calming persona

Thank you for your insight and advice. I've watched quite a lot of your posts but this video I have just watched has had a certain affect on my way of thinking. I now intend to watch as much of your videos as I can and give you an advanced Thank you for your help. 👍🏾 👍🏾👍🏾

Great work always good information to the point- thanks.

#1 was an excellent point. You have no idea whatsoever what kind of violence and evil a stranger is capable of. Getting into fights over stupidity should be avoided at all costs. Never risk you life over some temporary anger. Let it go and make it home. The most effective means of self-defense is controlling the situation. Defusing anger and deescalating. But if you must fight, do it with 100% of your strength from the first second.

Dragging bystanders in is a new one, as is the argument that most of them wouldn’t help, so you have to help yourself ;) Nowadays keeping in mind the different culture background people can have is important, but makes it even harder to judge a situation.

So much pure WISDOM articulated clearly. Thank you 🙏🏿

Great channel and have been in some situations in my youth where he described it perfectly.

Absolutely brilliant video! Thanks

This is so true, great content as always.

Great of you to share valuable information to the whole world!

Always worth the watch, thanks

Very wise words, and nicely said. This message should be played for everyone on youtube... as it applies to more then just fighting.

Thx 4 this informative video. Also short enough 2 remember & straight 2 the point.

Very great . Advice . Never assume they are like you . Always prepare for life or death / scenario if you simply have to Fight .

In other words, back down from everything thing and everyone. In fact never leave your home and just presume everyone you talk to is wanting to kill you.

I know so many people who think like this, where they don't understand how fighting works in the street or that it can happen ANYWHERE TO ANYONE! They also don't understand the difference between street fights and sports fights. I have a cousin who does Muay Thai and Brazilian ju jitsu. None of my family members understand that not all those sports fighting skills can be translated to the street so you can survive. They don't even think about a weapon coming into the fight in the street. It's not good. I hope everyone with that mindset can learn and understand how it works outside of a ring or cage.

I vote this one as your best message yet. Outstanding video.

Thanks for the video. Very useful!!!

Thank you for your information and knowledge. You demonstrated and explained great points Especially in this dangerous, violent world

Great post from many perspectives! Keep educating the masses please

In this world, we all need advice like this... One never knows when the next "Media Event" will happen so Always be aware of your surroundings and those moving through your space... Thank you for your wisdom.

Your content is consistently good, thanks for sharing

GOOD POINT U MADE. ABOUT A PERSON CAN HAVE A different definition of violence.

Thank you for your videos and insight. I appreciate very much your willingness to educate in a way that anyone can benefit from your expertise regardless of their physical abilities, or level of training, if any at all. God bless.

Very informative. Thank you.

Thanks for teaching.

Wow. # 1 really changed my perspective on getting into confrontations with people I do not know.

I always avoid conflict when I can. As a former combat vet, SWAT officer and martial artist of 20 years. Talking or backing your way out of a volatile situation is the best option. That said, some people just want to hurt or kill you. You need to assess who those individuals are. When you or someone around you is at risk of getting seriously hurt, you need to assess how much you can help without assistance. As when I was getting rounds sent my direction in war made me never feel remorseful killing those trying to kill me, you also need to understand that you shouldn't feel bad taking out an aggressor doing the same thing on your streets you frequent. No mercy and no rules. Take out the threat. Don't push it beyond that. Fight Science has some VERY good advice. I carry a firearm everywhere I go. I also carry a flat sap. They can break bones if used correctly on its edge. Although I can carry them where I live, it is also illegal to use unless in defense. I'd rather survive an encounter and deal with the legalities, but never push and aggressive person in to a fight unless absolutely necessary. Your pride will survive.

Best content EVER! Thank you.

Very good Tips thanks for sharing. I’m from Brooklyn New York all my life and whatever you said is what I’m constantly thinking about ….On the trains on the bus walking the streets late at night I’m always aware. Again, thanks for sharing. Good confirmation. God bless.

Amazing analysis 100% spot on

Situational Awareness is KEY. It's ashame, we ALWAYS have to be READY !!!!

Avoid conflict, but be prepared. Great advise here...

Excellent content, great video. Especially liked the "stupid people/places/things part of the video. Very good information, should be put in a PSA for teens and young adults.

Man, im from Ecuador and i really appresiate your teaching, you are clear to express your message and cocrete explaning , thank you very much!

Love your content. Any chance on doing a video on how to get an untrained person out of a physical conflict? As an example. I'm defacto security at my job, while I'm a bit trained ( outdated, to be sure.), I've got nothing when someone has their hands on someone else. I've gotten the job done, but usually the victim catches an elbow or something. To clarify, I'm a pharmacy assistant, (yeah, methadone clinics are that bad), and by no means a scary or massive guy. Just the only one with a little bouncing, and amateur MMA experience. (again, outdated, and wielded by a small guy, not trying to sound badass. If I was I wouldn't have to look for advice on youtube.)

A very good analysis of confrontation.

I watch a lot of UFC so I'm pretty much a purple belt in BJJ. I'm also getting cauliflower ear implants this summer so nobody will mess with me.