The idea that TMAs do not produce skilled fighters because they lack public competition ignores important points.
Many TMAs were developed for real-world combat, not sport. Their techniques are often tested in sparring, drills, and scenario training, even if not in public view - especially koryū. TMAs also focus on skills like weapon defence and handling multiple attackers, which are rarely part of competitive sports.
TMAs emphasise discipline, strategy, and awareness, all essential qualities for skilled fighters. Fighters like Lyoto Machida (karate) and Ronda Rousey (judo) have shown that traditional techniques can succeed in modern competitions. TMAs are also used in military and police training.
Competition is one way to test skill, but it is not the only way. TMAs and combat sports have different goals, and skill depends on the person and their training.
Not all fights are public, and not all skill is for show. TMAs produce fighters in their own way and deserve respect for their contributions to martial arts.
In my opinion there's little "art" in the combat sport martial arts.
Let's hypothetically imagine a duel between Connor McGregor and Miyamoto Musashi. Get it?
