The sword art was created for beastmen because the sword art requirement towards one's own physique is quite strict.
Because of this Dio would train his body every day and neglect the usage of his Mana his own martial art improve but his Mana is quite lacking.
Even with his diligent training he could only strike for 29 strike after that he needs to stop or his body would fall apart.
That is why he wanted to win the competition he knew that Shadowslash his idol have a method to increase his physique just by looking at the core members of the guild.
The other members of his group respected him because of his determination and was able to train the art to this level.
Back in the fight strike after strike landed on the shield and the ferocity that Dio was displaying made the audience feel scared they also couldn't help but admire the so called Third Brother as he just stood there and received the heavy barrage.
