aah cool man thanks, man. I'm free all this week so I can pick a time that suits you. I honestly think it's the MU in general...but I will go into detail as soon as we can get this thing going
I just realized that your version of MU is different from mine. I thought you meant Mutual Understanding, a college term. I realize now that you're talking about match-up data, which unfortunately I do not have at the moment.
Stepping left is an accurate way to dodge almost any of Raphael's attacks. Unfortunately, Raphael is so quick that it requires precise timing. The timing is so precise in fact that Just Guarding might be easier. The timing is right towards the end of his moves. If you get the timing down, you can dodge a majority of Raphael's horizontals.
Here are some things I do:
Preparation combos:
- His first attack may be a high or a mid. Raph's 66B can be easily dodged and somewhat easily Just Guarded. If he uses 3B, block the first one and duck if they continue with the fast high swings. Counter as you see fit.
- Be careful when sidestepping too close to him during preparation. A good Raph player will use his Prep K-K BE.
- If he continues an onslaught of strikes, use a GI and counter.
- If he tries to delay attacks to fish for a CH, grab him when he is in prep.
Shadow Evade:
- The only real threat is his Shadow Evade B attack, which can most certainly lead to some devastating combos.
- The second greatest threat is the low sweep, which leads to an okizeme game. Stand block at first but try to low block and counter if you see it coming. It can only be used at very short range. If it hits, a smart Raph player would follow up with 22B, 3B prep or 11K. The 11K is the slowest and can be blocked easier from standing to ducking. Even if the 11K connects, it's just a slight trip. They can't follow up with anything but more okizeme. The others lead to combos. Stand up and hold block for best results. Try to catch the 11K and counter.
8-way run:
- Raph starting his 8WR moves can lead to several things. Most of the real threatening 8WR moves can be sidestepped rather easily. So if he moves, you'll want to move as well. Side stepping can and will avoid everything except for his 11K and 22A. Both of which cannot lead to combos. Everything else can be avoided. Of course there is his 44A-B prep but most Raphael players don't use it and you have to be very close to get caught with it. Not to mention it's very slow and can be punished.
Grabs:
You'll want to tap B to avoid a ring-out. His 66A+G grabs are the most threatening, so unless they never use them tap A when grabbed.
General rule:
- Try to use fast mids to interrupt his moves. Using mids will interrupt tricky moves such as his 4B.
- His power lies in his center. He may catch you with horizontals but they don't do much damage.
- Sidestepping and ducking in most cases are a safe way to defend against him.
I think that about covers it. If you have more questions just ask.
