Even training against a Bjjer is good for learning how to escape from under someone larger than you, maybe even better since a Bjjer will know how to keep you in that position and apply top pressure. A side mount is a side mount whether you're doing sport or self defense. The only thing missing from sport practice would be the striking component. However, if you're really good at escaping positions, you can really learn strike defense in your spare time. The main thing is learning how to escape those positions, which a sport school can teach just as well as a school based in self defense.
Again, I can personally attest to how good women become at Bjj escapes after just a few months of practice. The fact that they tend to be smaller forces them to be more agile and be better at escapes and counters, whereas larger males tend to stand their ground and push back, trying to establish top position, and be more aggressive.
I think you as an Aikidoka would appreciate that.

Personally as a larger male, I always envied the smaller practitioner. I really think they end up being better in the art in the long run.