Here's the problem with this statement. Edge of Extinction was a part of Survivor. It's in play, so as a competitor you have to allow for the fact that whoever is there is playing some sort of game to return, while trying to curry favour with the potential jury. Thus, whomever returned from EOE had just as valid reason to win versus someone who hadn't gone there.
But the truth is that Tony played well enough that there was no question that he was winning. Even Natalie admitted that she knew he'd won. So, as Joey Tribbiani might say, it was a moo point.
Now, with that said, the Edge is a concept that should no longer be used on Survivor. I just don't like the idea of a repechage on a show where you've been voted out by your peers.