"physical altercation" is a correct and usable phrase in written English. It can be used to describe a physical fight or argument between two or more people. For example, "The couple got into a physical altercation after arguing for several hours.".
She then became "physically combative," the report said, and "a physical altercation ensued".
A physical altercation ensued, and quickly escalated.
It was not a physical altercation.
The two allegedly engaged in a physical altercation.
The shooting reportedly stemmed from a physical altercation.
When the two went inside the house, a physical altercation broke out.
The two men square off angrily, and it appears that a physical altercation is imminent.
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.
Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com