Hardcore players, do you just not mess with phys dmg mercs in maps?

I've rolled 3 HC characters this league and all 3 have been one shot by a merc in maps. 2 of them in white maps. 90% phys from armor, 5 endurance charges, Fortification, it doesn't seem to matter. Is this a bug? I thought they removed the defense ignoring mods from mercs? every other non phys merc is fine, sketchy but doable, it's just the phys mercs that seem to be very overtuned.