Being a former Special Forces soldier (24 years worth) and having studied several martial arts styles (at work and on my own since I was 5) I would agree that you should avoid the fight if at all possible. Be willing to lose face and suffer a little embarrassment if necessary, do not let your ego get the best of you. Like Desperado said, you get into a fight, you will likely get hurt, win, lose or draw.

That said, the most practical style I have found, and the less technical with no "dancing" is Gracie Jiu Jitsu. If you feel the need to learn something, that would be my recommendation. And just a forewarning, even the practice hurts, so you will be ready for the real thing for sure.