I agree that technique trumps strength. That's why I seek out little old men that can kick my a$$. Also strength will fade as the years progress. But if it's going to fade why go from 5 to 1 when you can go from 9 to 5. I just look at it regardless how good I become, there is always someone better why not have something in reserve.

Also as was mentioned before better conditioning allows for more intense training which leads to increased skill.