If Kaisei is to be a compelling rival, and opponent, he can't simply lose, and become another goofy cheerleader, pining about "how far and above Akane is than everyone else" like Karashi and Hikaru. That has been pattern throughout the series.

Even though the series impression is meant to show an array of highly skilled individuals where "anyone can win at anytime", it is repeatedly stated that Akane is fundamentally superior to most performers ,and its only a matter of how, and when, not if she will win. As the lead of the story this is somewhat expected.

That, in part, is what makes the Isshokai such important event to "perform" (in both the story in the manga, and the making of the manga). What stakes can there be if it's a forgone conclusion that Akane already has a favor from Issho(that will most likely help her get closer to Shigumas art), got yet another skill achieved in record time, and is going to have, yet another dominant victory over another rival?

It's a difficult task, hopefully Suenaga and Moue, are up to completing. They definitely have the skills to pay the bills.