How to Beat Soda Popinski in Punch Out

Punch-Out is one of Nintendo's most famous sports franchises. Its popularity can be attributed to its engaging gameplay and unique array of enemy characters from various parts of the world.

One of the most difficult to beat characters in Punch Out is Russian boxer Soda Popinski. The difficulty arises mainly due to his confusing tactics, like using blocks continuously and strafing suddenly. Still, there are tricks you can employ to overcome the Russian boxer in the various Punch-Out games.

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To defeat Soda Popinski, you should know the attack patterns of the character. Firstly, the boxer heavily uses two offensive moves — the left jab and the upper hook while ducking. You can easily counter both moves with the methods detailed below.

• The Left Jab: The first move executed by Soda Popinski. Avoid it by moving towards the right using your D-Pad. It is a simple counter that is very effective. After moving, land punches continuously (A or B button) on the boxer until he goes for another left jab.
• The Upper Cut (Ducking): During this move, use D-Pad Down to block his attack. After defending, punch him immediately in the gut to gain a Special Star move. Press the Start button to give him your Special Uppercut, draining his energy completely.
• Tripple Throtting Jab: With this move, he shuffles three times before punching three times. Dodge it by using the default direction button.

Repeat the given solutions to counter all offensive moves until you defeat Soda Popinski.  

How to Defeat Soda Popinski in Punch-Out Wii (2009)

In the Wii Version of Punch-Out, Soda Popinski has several moves that need to be studied and countered.

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• Hook Punch: Dodge it by strafing, crouching, or blocking. 
• Uppercut: To only way to counter the Uppercut is by moving left or right. Remember, his left Uppercut is a bit fast than his right, so be a little quick while he uses his left hand. Also, use a right jab after his left Uppercut to secure a star.
• Side Stepping Hook: Soda usually uses this move after his first knockout. He sidesteps to the left and gives a right hook; counter the step by moving left.
• Taunt: Sometimes, Soda will taunt you by standing and laughing at you. Punch him to get a star, or use your Star Punch to get an instant knockout.
• Soda Bottle: Soda Popinski will slurp a drink during a match to increase his health. You can punch his bottle to gain a star and cancel this move.
• Rage Uppercut: Rage Uppercut is Soda's signature move where he throws 3 to 4 fast-paced Uppercuts. He uses this move either after knocking on his Soda bottle drink or after a star punch. Just dodge all his 3 or 4 attacks by strafing, and by the last punch, he will slow down. Use that window to land your counterpunch and reset his rage.

Remember, understanding the move set of Soda Popinski is only half of the strategy. To truly defeat Soda, keep practicing and grinding the game regularly.

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