How can you even debate gaurd gauge isnt a factor just by playing a decent Aba player.
Pfft JO doing 5HS counter hit at flashing bar = your def wont mean shyt to what is about to happen.
For example, with robo ky, I might oki with 3x 5HS frc which for most characters it will raise gaurd damage to flashing, allowing for high lvl damage, or even just a CH tick throw. Some see it as a waste of tension, I see it as a way to do out of the box mix-ups.
"Guard Gauge is building Fear"