How to deal with vertical attacks

[Hobgoblins]

I don't play many fighting games so it's most likely a lack of skill but I find vertical fighting in this game near impossible to get down, every attack from the opponent appears to take priority over mine so I'm constantly getting hit. I don't know if this is down to timing, hitboxes, or what but is there any way to practice winning in a vertical fight?

Banana guard and Shaggy particularly scourge me with their presence whenever I'm trying to fight them their attacks seem to near always take priority.

[Jargas]

Some characters are meant to be better in the air. Their attacks will out range or priority yours depending on who. Solution. Keep the fight on the ground.