Vega (Claw)

Description:
Stamina: 1,000
Stun: 900
Fighting Style: Bullfighting Arts and Ninjutsu
Fighter Type: Versatile
Strengths: Fast speed, great mobility, good pokes and footsies
Weaknesses: Reversals are not strike invulnerable, pokes are weaker without claw

Character Videos:
Video Study #2: Abel vs Vega (random)
Video #1: Abel vs Vega (shiroburi-hu vs ztttt_39)

Offense Strategy:
The strategy is pretty straight-forward; close down on Vega. He has solid pokes to defend himself with and can escape if you get too close with his Flying Barcelona Attack or jumping back flips. EX Change of Direction is useful here against Vega players that poke too much. Rolls are also useful to try and get through the pokes. Alternatively, you could use focus attacks to block and dash in but it is risky.

Defense Strategy:
Vega's main weapon of choice will be his pokes. Experienced Vega players will also know that jump-ins also work well against Abel, who has few anti-air options against him. Ignore the pokes and just guard against them, find an opportunity to jump over or roll through them. Against jump-ins, you could probably trade with standing HP or crouching MK. Some Vega players also like to abuse his Flying Barcelona Attack as a mix-up, either hitting in front, behind or grabbing you. Use focus attacks to counter this, or with Abel just dash after Vega and jump HK him.

Notes:
- Breathless whiffs on Cosmic Heel, need to wait for Vega to land but timing is very strict i.e. he can jump away in time
- Abel can use jumping HK to counter Vega's Flying Barcelona Attack as he launches off the wall. The only way he can avoid this is to dive away from Abel (which he can't do if he does the cross up with the special) or by slashing as soon as he dives off the wall.
- Like Chun-Li, Vega's back dash is very good. If he's back dashing a lot, anticipate and punish with a dash to Tornado Throw or use option select sweep.
- Vega without his mask does and takes 10% more damage.