You don’t have to be the best player or to cheat on the poker table for +ev
You have to be better than the bad players, and know when to fold against a better player
You will make less profit than cheats. But, you won’t have to cheat
That is easier with fair opponents. Cheating could help the worse poker player to win.
In a field of apple tree, the best/fast/cheater climbers got the most apples but eventually everyone showing up can pick one or patient for the next season.
Pocket and finance needs at the very least one looser for the others to win something. Others cheating and you not, does lower your chances to win.