He came out swinging during the argument.
come out swinging
idiomTo initiate an encounter or interaction by behaving in an unrestrainedly aggressive, confrontational, or accusatory manner.
Origin
disputed originAn allusion to the behavior of a boxer who immediately begins a boxing match or a round of a match by aggressively throwing punches in an unrestrained manner.
When the manager criticized her work, she came out swinging and defended her team's results.
The candidate came out swinging at the start of the debate, immediately challenging his opponent's record on economic policy.
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as they come
As it is possible to be.
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blow to kingdom come
To totally destroy (something); to annihilate or wipe out (something).
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Christmas come early
Something very delightful or fortunate that is happening or has happened, especially earlier than expected.
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come a cropper
To suffer some accident or misfortune; to fail.
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come a long way
To make significant progress.
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come again
A polite formula used when one has not heard or understood what has been said, or to indicate surprise.
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come alive
to become responsive and animated.
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come along
To arise, appear (make an appearance), come into being.