It doesnt sound like this will be a "one time thing" He needs to know you're serious about not taking that kind of behaviour. I wont say that he cant learn not to do it, but I will say if he thinks he can get away with it once, it prob wont stop.
I have ZERO respect for a man that hits a woman in a situation like what you described, you did not hit him first, you did not put his life in danger...there was no excuse for him to try to put his hands on you...period.
I'd tell him if he is serious about being with you...he take some form of anger management stuff. If he continues to deny he has any kind of problem, dont see him anymore.
Im glad to see a girl that actually has some self respect for herself. Best wishes to you
