The lack of effort on the part of most people precludes any comparison of talent. For example, if we consider the majority of warriors, their current performance levels suggest a potential rating of 0.8 or even 0.7. But the lowest potential rating for a warrior starts at 1. That's why Tang Luo can make such bold assertions.
A massive flood engulfed the western region of Longzhou, affecting tens of millions of people, 99% of whom were commoners. It is heart-wrenching to imagine just how many of these people were hiding exceptional talent within this huge population.
The flood took not just the people of Xiling but also the foundation of Tang Luo's rise to glory. He resented his lack of power to save all these people.