He's aware that Equius comes from a combat-oriented planet. (One with a society that culls those not born within accepted parameters.) Those muscles aren't just for show. They represent the kind of strength trolls admire.

With a direct attack like that, Midoriya is ready to suddenly step back with one foot, reducing his hit area. He deflects most of the force by dodging and grabbing Equius's arm with his hands. It's powerful, enough to make the muscles of his stomach brace in reflex at the speed with which they were almost hit, but nothing One For All can't handle. When they last sparred, he was lifting steel beams. He's three times as strong and fast now.

He bends Equius's arm behind him in a hold.

"Try to get out of this," he suggests.