The opponent is simply allowed to output more than you. I am unable to swing punches at a reasonable speed, yet the cpu can allow its fighter to parry every attack I throw, ever special I use, and even my showstopper?! I am unable to activate my special moves at certain points (almost like my fighter is stunned) but the cpu is allowed to spam moves and specials at a rate that far surpasses what you are capable of doing, even when you are spamming the controls to make at least something work.