Iron Fist
The power of Shou-Lao!Iron Fist is a melee-focused duelist in Marvel Rivals, excelling at high burst damage, mobility, and survivability. His primary role is to dive into the enemy backline, eliminate vulnerable targets like strategists or squishy duelists, and disrupt the opponent's formation. With his fast-paced attacks and versatile movement abilities, Iron Fist can quickly close gaps, reposition, or escape danger when needed. His kit emphasizes precision and timing, rewarding players who can execute combos effectively while avoiding prolonged engagements.
Iron Fist thrives in team compositions that include durable vanguards like Hulk or Captain America to absorb enemy focus while he flanks or dives. His ability to heal himself with Harmony Recovery and sustain through fights with Chi Absorption makes him a formidable presence in chaotic battles. However, his reliance on melee combat and relatively low health make him vulnerable to ranged duelists like Black Widow or Hawkeye, requiring careful positioning and awareness to maximize his impact.
How to play Iron Fist in Marvel Rivals
Positioning is critical for Iron Fist due to his melee range and squishiness. Use Crane Leap to perform up to three consecutive air jumps, allowing you to stay mobile during fights or chase down fleeing enemies. Pair this with Wall Runner to traverse terrain horizontally and surprise enemies by attacking from unexpected angles. These tools also make Iron Fist highly effective at countering flying heroes like Storm or Iron Man, as he can remain airborne while delivering precise strikes.
Iron Fist's self-sustain is one of his greatest strengths. Use Harmony Recovery during downtime or after disengaging from a fight to heal yourself; if used at full health, it grants bonus temporary health that decays over time. Be sure to find cover before activating it, as standing still in the open will make you an easy target. Additionally, take advantage of Chi Absorption, which restores health whenever you secure a takedown or assist an ally.
Timing your ultimate ability, Living Chi, is key to dominating team fights. This ability empowers Iron Fist with increased speed, damage reduction, faster attack animations, and reduced cooldowns for Dragon's Defense, making him a whirlwind of destruction. Activate it during pivotal moments in fights—preferably when diving into the enemy backline or contesting objectives—to maximize its impact. While in this state, focus on eliminating high-priority targets like strategists or duelists before retreating if necessary.
Iron Fist Counters and Synergies
Iron Fist Abilities
Living Chi
Become living Chi to boost Iron Fist's speed, damage, and attack range, delivering stronger punches while reducing the cooldown of Dragon's Defense.
Jeet Kune Do
Strike the targeted enemy with Jeet Kune Do, reducing the cooldown of Dragon's Defense with every hit.
Yat Jee Chung Kuen
Dash forward to pursue the targeted enemy and unleash a flurry of attacks.
Dragon's Defense
Assume a defensive stance with a boost of Chi to block incoming attacks with 30% damage reduction. Jeet Kune Do then turns into Yat Jee Chung Kuen.
K'un-Lun Kick
Dash forward, delivering a flying kick when hitting an enemy or reaching full range, dealing damage to nearby enemies. Damage increases with lower enemy health.
Harmony Recovery
Cross legs and channel Chi, slowly gaining bonus health.
Chi Absorption
Assists in taking down enemies allow him to absorb their Chi and gain 50 bonus health.