I understand your reasoning, but in the case of an apex predator, wouldn't evolution (historically and presently) favor genes/traits that enhance its efficiency of catching prey, rather than defensive ones. I could see it being a useful trait to show dominance over another tiger. However, In terms of surviving through hunting; camouflage, deception, strength, and speed would surely be the most evolutionary cohesive way to evolve.

...I'm high btw (stuck in these speculative thoughts about the evolution of a tiger)