Darth Malgus was (already) among the greatest warriors of the Empire at that time. His victory over Kao Cen Darach was proof enough. His raw power is too much for Mara Jade Skywalker, like it was for Darach.
Last edited by S_W_LeGenD on Oct 26th, 2016 at 05:38 PM
And yeah, maybe the duelist point was stretching it a wee bit too much, but in the Force, she is thoroughly outclassed. Too outclassed for her to circumvent it for any kind of win.
I am still don't seeing how Deceived Malgus has a dueling edge as all.
His best feat is beating Zallow, whose only feat iirc, besides losing to Malgus, was blitzing Sith. Naturally, this feat is impressive, but not more impressive than Corran besting Vong at his first encounter and has beaten Shedao Shai.
Hype-based, Zallow is also very good, but not fantastic. I doubt you would put Kao as Kyle's equal, only because he is a battlemaster.
Back to Mara: Jade has beaten Hord, while heavily wekened, and -dunno if you accept this showing- has statlemated Caedus -Malgus vastly superior with a blade- with circumstances in her favor.