@ Kathartes
I didnt meant it lile that. I get that Ohma used his life to train niko style. But if i remember correctly he used only one techince at a time until the fight with the assasin clan's fighter. He couldn't use it to the full potential. In the story, yeah he developed it in hars ways with sweat and blood. But in the manga, what we saw, he got stronger bit by bit. And if we see only the results it doesnt matter if its happening by luck, experience, hard work or "too" fast learning.
Yes, the writer likes a more "ground-level/ real like" development but if its necessary for the story then he gonna be in the competition i can guarantee it.
(Even though i think he doesnt participate/something happens and he join in later and his ending is gonna be a fight with Ryuki)