To avoid spoilers, I purposely didn’t mention where to encounter this guy. For the most part, I use hearing to know when to dodge his attacks. After a few of his swings, you learn his growl and sword speed – to the point that you don’t even need to watch it happen. The best place to stand near him is to his side or directly behind him. Always keep a little stamina ready for if he tries to stomp you. You can get him to loop this animation if you’re lucky. His swing arc forward will hit you even if you’re behind him if you don’t dodge, he has a massive back swing.