I think you guys put a finger on a good portion of it, it def seems a instinctual reaction, almost a panicky survival instinct or something. There has been many who have seemed 'clear' headed that have taken a knee for God knows what. To break momentum, just green and confused etc. Rafael Ruelas vs Quiroz 1 comes to mind as a default. Ruelas was as clear as a bell, not hurt and took knee only to have his corner blow the count and he was ruled a "ko" loser. Weird shit.

This one sticks. Most dramatic case of a guy almost 'giving it up' only to come back for win. Some would have waved it off because of back turn but he did take knee. Its really all subjective I spose. Gotta trust Smoger