The next exchange begins without announcement. Thanid resets in the center and finally follows his corner's instruction to the letter.
He steps in behind a clean one-two-three, all aimed at the chest, the sternum, the line just below the collarbone. No ambition for the head this time.
"He's not waiting anymore," the lead commentator says sharply. "Thanid is taking initiative."
"That's veteran composure," the analyst replies. "He got countered earlier, but he didn't retreat into caution. He's adjusting and pressing forward."
Another combination drives toward Ryoma's torso, only fully blocked on stiff guard.
"He's targeting the foundation now," the analyst continues. "If you can't catch the head clean, you break the structure underneath it."
"And look at the intent," the lead commentator adds. "Those aren't feeler shots. He's trying to make the champion uncomfortable early."
