Best solution is to not get surrounded and keep moving. Jump kicks and the spin kick are good stick and move option if you don't want to commit to punching. Over the shoulder throw on stunned enemies will do a little crowd control help as well.

Also rising with the spinning headbutt can be useful since it carries you forward and ducking doesn't seem to help them avoid it.

If you can knock down a bunch of people at once, just stand behind where they'll rise and punch. Only the stick guys can get out of that.