In a way, that is affirmative. But do keep in mind that this only applies to double and reverse double alternative raid defense formation. In other formation on raid defense, including in wars and in raid tourneys, such boost or bane formation is not applied. This is why you see a lot of Siff tanks on middle to upper diamond raid arena as she is a bit tanky (especially more so once her skill is activated), gives riposte to all instead to herself and nearby, and dodges some specials because she is a rogue.
Again, this is a double edged sword, with all pros and cons, as well as in other raid formation.
People who don’t have hero academy are mostly new or newish players. They are always at the disadvantage compared to experienced and veteran players since the latter are somewhat have roster depth and experience on their side. You cannot expect kindergarten pupils able to solve complex problems on calculus the way middleschoolers are capable of. Besides, you are probably on the same arena with players not having the HA built (of course with a few exceptions like players who focused on building HA even if they are relatively new or those who are experienced players cupdropping, but you can always reroll in raids for you not to deal such defenses).