That, and if you can win the fights you get. It's not nearly easy when higher ranks with gunners+primordial never low their defenses. On my end I've set one eddie since the start of the event. It'd be much easier for everyone that way, specially for the newest people.
I've spent over 400 ironite and have 250 battles + AAA rank in gauntlet, which i won't fight anymore.
I'm hoping to reach 400 battles, for the skill shards at least.