Before you go up against an opponent it helps to have done your homework.
And that's just what Malcolm Turnbull did when he squared off against outspoken radio broadcaster Alan Jones for the first time in two years.
The pair decided to bury the hatchet on Wednesday after a fiery interview in 2014 when Jones demanded Turnbull pledge allegiance to then-prime minister Tony Abbott.
But after a weekend lunch that doubled as peace talks, Jones warned his listeners that anyone expecting a brawl on Wednesday would be disappointed.
"This is an election campaign and it is a very serious matter," he told them.
After grilling Turnbull about budget deficits, government debt and negative gearing, the wealthy broadcaster turned his sights to the "toxic" plan to tax earnings on superannuation account balances above $1.6 million.
The measure has angered some sections of the Liberal Party.
"Would you consider listening to the electorate and raising the cap as a first step towards accommodating these people?" Jones asked Turnbull.
No, said the PM.
"We believe our changes to superannuation are fair and well-targeted."
The prime minister had come prepared, quoting Jones back at him.
"You said it yourself last year, very eloquently as always," Turnbull said, noting the broadcaster's previous comments on super tax concessions.
"The reality is we have to live within our means."
Jones hit back with a little dig when Turnbull tried to compare the wealth of the pair, who he conceded will be paying a bit more tax as a result of the budget.
"I'm not in your league PM," Jones quipped.
"Well, who knows," Turnbull replied.
Jones ended the 20-minute chat pledging to pick up on the controversial Safe Schools program, which teaches children about gay and lesbian issues, when they talk again.
And they won't be waiting another two years.
They're scheduled to speak again next week.
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