trade punches

1. Literally, of two people, to strike each other with the fists. The two boxers kept trading punches, but neither would admit defeat. Hey, hey, break it up! If you two idiots want to trade punches, don't do it in my bar!

2. sports To engage in a competition of strength and skill with an opposing player or team. The two rugby teams will trade punches for the second time this season on Saturday.

3. To exchange criticisms, rebukes, barbs, etc., with a rival or enemy. The five candidates spent almost the entire debate ahead of the primaries trading punches.