Here’s a clip of a knockdown or knockout from Instagram.
The two fighters are swinging for the fences. Blue is leading the attack; we can see this because he throws first. Red is trying to counter attack blue; we can see this because he is punching with blue, after blue throws.
In strategy, you should understand your opponent’s strategy. Identify it. A counter puncher reveals himself, when he waits for you to go first, and punches with you, tries to time you, or returns punches after you.
Dealing with a counter puncher, there are two primary tactics. You either make them go first, which can create a very boring fight, or you overwhelm them with offense.