avoid the middle

Fighting in the close range is dangerous, and can be tricky. The close range is an easy distance to land powerful blows. Even if you think you’re safe because you are the one attacking, one strong punch from your opponent is enough to put you down. It’s hard to see the strikes from such close range.
This is why, when you fight close range, you want to avoid the middle as much as possible. By avoiding the middle, you can be offensive with your strikes, and defensive at the same time, since you opponent will have a hard time catching you. The middle is kill zone. Move your head with your punches you throw, avoiding the middle. This will give you a huge advantage over your opponents in the close range.
Train smart,
Sharir R, ICCS head instructor