The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 plus 2 letter word STAND TO
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
S
T
A
N
D
T
O
More clues leading to the result STAND TO
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "get ready for a fight?" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case get ready for a fight? = stand to.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does STAND TO mean?
STAND TO noun- A state of readiness assumed by ground troops at dawn and dusk in wartime.
- To assume such a state of readiness.