I don't think LHC is "useless" without a sword like @Western Eccentric stated, but he may be very vulnerable against opponents who are at level ~55 and higher.
Contrarily, I think barehanded pre-16 YG shouldn't have a difficult time against opponents who are at level 60 and below.
YG's HIS training with the Divine Condor and the waterfall, 9yin defensive skills, and his superb lightness kungfu should be enough to fight these opponents.