I think it can be confusing and discouraging to a portion of players the way it is now. For example I am level 23 but I find that level can be sparse of opponents so I often fight with a level 15 mech but when it goes into the screen before the battle it just shows me as a level 23 and the other person is like oh noes a level 23 and quits even though i am in a evenly matched mech. I think it would be well if perhaps on the load screen there it shows player level AND mech level (highest level item on mech) so its clearer what you are fighting. If you need me to clarify I can provide screen shots.

very good idea!
just show the matchmaking level in the vs. screen

in this matter: kits shouldn't count for the matchmaking items...

cheers