I think Gungo and I have shared the same ideas for bruiser offensive stance for a few years now. Even if it never becomes an encounter proc it should proc as Gungo stated " off ANY hit not melee".
Years and years ago I believe engulf had the chance to proc off melee and combat arts. For everyday norrath adventures offensive stance had beneficial use.
As for rock skin I again wish bruisers didn't have it. Its just a sub-class individuality thing for me. I don't like my monk and bruisers being so alike/sharing abilities. It defeats the purpose of having two sub-classes if both are alike.
Novs idea of the 25% magic damage reduction is unique and would allow the bruiser to have an ability that isn't like the monks version.
Gungo has a great point that control hate is a nice ability but requiring shiftiness is what makes it lack appeal.