Funny how this thread went off in a different direction than I had hoped, but is still just as interesting
To supplement the original question - or maybe simplify it:
Some gyms have found an "ideal system", in the sense that it seems to work against other arts very well, it can be trained effectively, and it can evolve if necessary. Many times this system involves boxing, MT, wrestling, and BJJ. Is this it? Or, can any art maintain its cultural and physical identity yet at the same time be alive and equally applicable?
(Example: Suppose a Ba Gua guy decided to up his striking game a bit. Would the end result be a more effective, direct, "alive" Ba Gua, or would he end up with boxing / MT after a while?)