The problem with that theory is it is almost impossible to strike someone in the eye on purpose it is hard enough just to hit someone in the head an eye poke is like a bullseye not easy
No, in a self-defense type altercation it's very easy to strike someone's eyes.
Don't confuse self-defense with cage fighting.
Even so they don't allow eyes strikes in mma.
You don't need much accuracy.
Just a slight graze is very painful.
Sticking your thumbs in someone's eyes is not too hard either.
Requires hardly any training but if trained is very disabling.
Strikes to the eyes are also disorienting which sets up other attacks.
This guy Machado is using mma techniques which include kicks like any other mma fighter.
Karate is kicking and striking to vital areas.