use the boxing style guard. more specifically, like tyson's peek-a-boo guard. the torso is protected and the head is protected. You can't rely on the hands for protection when you are in close though, with or without gloves. You need to move. LOTS of head movement and footwork.
i'm nobody...i'm nobody. i'm a tramp, a bum, a hobo... a boxcar and a jug of wine... but i'm a straight razor if you get to close to me.
-Charles Manson
I will punch, kick, choke, throw or joint manipulate any nationality equally without predjudice.
- Shonie Carter