Frame count: 19043 frames @ 59.94 FPS = 5:17.701

STRAT EXPLANATION:

The boss fight between fights 4 and 5 will NOT occur if your opponent hits you first in more than 6 fights. This will not only skip that boss fight, but will also skip the Akuma/Rugal fight as well, and will take you to the ending.

The jab/short spam at the beginning of the first 7 rounds is to goad the computer into attacking, as it will just stand still most of the time on that difficulty level if you don't engage. This is the most effective way I found to get the CPU to take action first.