Capoiera would still work against untrained fighters, and most street thugs are untrained (If they don't have the discipline to keep a job, or live there dreams, there most likely not gonna last in a gym) Some dealers etc.. know boxing, Kickboxing and MMA, but they usually don't walk around creating heat for them self's. So I'd say it might still work but You have to be aware it's not the end all. Also you need to know weapons, cowards like to use em a lot, even if they don't know how to.
Not the case in Hawaii. Thugs, dealers, wannabe gangstas are always willing, and able to get into it. It is always better to walk away.
