Specials: The Tornado Throw

Abel's Tornado Throw defines Abel under the Grappler category. It is an important tool in his mix-up and pressure game by just being in his move list. Both normal Tornado Throw and the EX version have different properties and hence are used differently in terms of gameplay.

The normal Tornado Throw is used up close as part of his mix-ups and allows Abel to open up an opponent's defense with potential mind games and break through tough guards. Tornado Throws are throw invulnerable and since most player's instinct is to try and tech a throw up close, this works quite well during quick pressure situations. Here are some setups that help you connect with the Tornado Throw:

1. After a blocked Step Kick (forward MK)
2. After a light attack (crouching LP or LK); also known as a tick Tornado Throw
3. After a forward dash
4. From an empty or blocked jump in/cross up
5. To break guard (on a defensive opponent)

His EX Tornado Throw has more applications as a counter tool since it has strike invulnerable properties. It's most often used to try and counter poorly timed links/pokes/block strings and to counter deep jump ins. Keep in mind that EX Tornado Throw is no longer throw invulnerable and has long recovery frames. You'll need to have a good feel about what your opponent is likely to do before going ahead with this.

Always keep in mind that TT is Abel's best tool not because its abusable or because its a throw, but because opponents who become afraid of this move will tend to open up their defense by jumping, backdashing or reversal moves. This lends you two advantages; more of their resources are going into figuring out how to beat your mind games and it also conditions them to play the match a certain way, and at your pace. Work your mind games and capitalise on these opportunities.