3 seconds provides for action. You have time to clinch, set your hips/feet, and go for a throw. Watch a master of it
Spoiler:

granted, there doesn't appear to be a ref, it's likely an exib. but you can see how quickly after contact, Cung commits to the throw.

I kinda chuckled when they always called Cung Le a striker. Granted his striking is great, but he dominated San Shou with his amazing throws.