> You have to be better than the bad players

That is easier with fair opponents. Cheating could help the worse poker player to win.

In a field of apple tree, the best/fast/cheater climbers got the most apples but eventually everyone showing up can pick one or patient for the next season.

Pocket and finance needs at the very least one looser for the others to win something. Others cheating and you not, does lower your chances to win.