Which of the following is an example of a pre-fight indicator?

• A. Jaw clenched, fists balled up
• B. Athletic fighting stance
• C. Ignoring commands
• D. Both A and B

Answer: (D)

A pre-fight indicator is a cue that someone may be about to escalate to force. When someone’s jaw is clenched and fists are balled, you’re seeing clear signs of muscular tension and readiness to act. An athletic fighting stance signals they’re prepared to engage—ready to close distance, defend, or strike. When these two cues appear together, they strongly suggest imminent escalation, which is exactly what a pre-fight indicator captures.

Ignoring commands, while it may lead to further escalation, isn’t a cue of imminent readiness to fight on its own, so it doesn’t fit the idea of a pre-fight indicator as clearly.