I’m wondering if there are some general categories of fighter (attacking style, counter fighter, long range kicker, etc). Do you think it’s possible to come up with a list of general types of fighter? I’m asking because a general list could help in coming up with some generic strategies to practice (e.g. practicing closing the distance against a kicker). Obviously, this approach has its flaws. But it might be a useful tool for training strategy nonetheless.
Yes, Joe Lewis (the karate/kickboxer) broke it down in one of his books. I don't have the book myself, so I can't quote it to you. My friend has the book, and I looked at it one day. It was brilliant. Maybe you can find it. I'd tell you more, but I don't have the book myself. I can only affirm that the work has already been done for you.
There are many permutations of the main fighting styles, and a fighter may use one predominantly, but rarely exclusively. Offensive Defensive Counter Offensive works well against defensive Defensive works well against counter Counter works well against offensive This is a very high level view, and it becomes more complex.
Thanks. Would you have any idea of the book’s title? (I had a look at Joe Lewis’ books, but it wasn’t clear which included the breakdown you described.)
It's the "Official JLFS Black belt manual" required for a black belt test. It's $99 (US) on the Joe Lewis webpage, and actually, for someone who is going deep into karate/kickboxing, it's worth the money. It's a seriously good book.