You go up to him and say hi. He glances up at you, says hi, then goes back to reading his book.

You shuffle awkwardly, then ask what he's reading. He sighs and says it's a book called "How to Punch". He goes back to reading, but after a moment he looks back up self-consciously and says that the title is kind of misleading. It's less of an introductory guide and more of an in-depth academic text on the nuances of fist-based combat.

You say that he doesn't need to front, it's okay to be new to fighting, everyone has to start somewhere. He rolls his eyes and says sure, but he has a PhD in Punching, so please don't diminish his expertise.

Something sparks in your memory, and you ask if he's the scientist from the magazine article you just read. He looks a little flattered and says yes, he is THE Dr. Fists, and he's kind of a big deal around here. You latch onto this and try to butter him up, saying that you could really use some tips from a genuine expert, because you ARE new to this. He nods solemnly, saying that he can tell you aren't from around here. Although he seems a little annoyed at being interrupted from reading, he can't help but take pity on your pitiful noob status.