you would have to show that the threats constituted you being in 'fear and alarm of life and limb' and you reacted in a manner to defend yourself in proportion to the preceedng attack. For a defence of self defence to be successful you really need to show that the actions you took were immediately in response and of a like manner to which you were subjected to. I doubt you could show this as you were only verbally threateneed and you physically attacked the assailant. i know this sounds harsh but that is the rules of self defence. also, if there is the option of retreat- ie. moving away or leaving you have to show that his is impossible for a successful plea of self defence.