I think stand up sparring needs to evolve.
No it doesn't. Sparring is just that - sparring. and there are alot of lessons to be learned from it; how to take3 a hit, dealing with adrenaline, timing, distancing, etc. a situational drill is just that - a drill. you are trying to simulate a real situation as realistically as possible while wtill being safe. They are separate tools, take them for what they are. Sparring however, will serve as an evvective method of training, especially over the short term. In the street, I'd put my money on a 6 month boxer any day over a 6 month CMA, unless he's training something like shuai chiao.
The thing you have to remember is that while sparring you are training against another skilled opponent. if your opponenet is untrained, he's not going to have the same understanding of timing, distance, etc. and you may be able to end it quickly and easily, as you have that advantage.
If you want to combine them though, find the thread Ryu started a month or two ago about situational awareness drills and try them. He does situational drills full contact, and they sound pretty good.
i'm nobody...i'm nobody. i'm a tramp, a bum, a hobo... a boxcar and a jug of wine... but i'm a straight razor if you get to close to me.
-Charles Manson
I will punch, kick, choke, throw or joint manipulate any nationality equally without predjudice.
- Shonie Carter