Imo, the viewing conditions for spectators probably depends on their numbers, the environment, and how ritualized the event becomes as a sport. Since there are plenty of stadiums in China today, but (afaik) not much evidence of stadiums existing in antiquity, I'd say that fighting on platforms may have helped people view. But, that would depend on the size of the town or city and the number of spectators. Otoh, where there will be large audiences (in the thousands, for ex.), it'd be more effective to raise the audience than to raise the competitors. It's the same for theater and theaters.
Afa ropes, when it comes to boxing, "pushing" isn't allowed, and the only things that count happen inside the ring. Ok, pro-wresting is another case altogether . But, take mma. Why do they use an octagon-shaped cage that's raised? It's all arbitrary.
I don't like headgear so much.