Crossword Genius

Predicament initially experienced after exchange of blows? (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

scrape

'predicament' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'initially experienced after exchange of blows?' is the wordplay.
'initially' says to take the initial letters.
'after' says to put letters next to each other.
'exchange of blows?' becomes 'scrap' (scrap can mean a fight).
The initial letter of 'experienced' is 'e'.
'e' after 'scrap' is 'SCRAPE'.

(Other definitions for scrape that I've seen before include "Thinly-spread butter" , "Grate, scratch" , "Grate - predicament" , "Take the surface off" , "Slight injury - close shave?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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