I don't believe Cooper is affiliated with the NRA. He is obviously ex military who has strong opinions that are not necessarily supported by research. There is legitimate research that shows that fear of a victim can cause a criminal to change intended targets. Surveys of incarcerated criminals found that over 80% said that they had changed their target when they knew or suspected that the original target was armed.
Before anyone goes off on me as an NRA shill, let me set the record straight. For years I taught research design to graduate students and honors students and I dislike any and all research that claims to certain findings when there is no support in the design or the data to make them legitimate statements.
I did belong to the NRA for years because it was a requirement to belong if I wanted to belong to a rifle club where I could shoot. I also sat on panels about research on firearms issues. I am a state certified hunter safety instructor and have taught handgun skills to women.

In close quarters, a flash of the blade can do as much, or more damage. No, I don't support the NRA!

right! and how if he has no gun?