There are a lot of folks that smash gweths. Just because Asperity is an empath doesn't make him less likely to use a gweth smasher. I don't know the issue leading up to the smashing, but there usually is a reason no matter how trival it may be.
I have seen Asperity before and I've never heard him play the "poor pitiful" empath card. But, he did smash your gweth which does entitle you to revenge. I'm a lower level empath and if I get in someone's face or start trouble, I do fully intend to take a beating. We're not all crying for mercy and expecting quarter after doing things we know will get us in trouble.
Anyway, good luck in your quest to beat Asperity, he's a tough dude. He may actually like the challenge.