Its a tough one to call. Bute and Ward are fighting in a weak SMW era. The good thing is that they are getting fighters to agree to fight so we find out who stands out in a weak era. You cant judge fights by common opponents, if you did Bute is way ahead of Ward. As the fight stands, I would favour Bute to outbox Ward and win by late KO or clear decision. Ward likes to hold and maul and Bute doesnt let fighters get too close to him. I think Ward long distance boxing would fall short. I think Ward would try and potshot whilst Bute outworks with combinations
As opposed to all the world-beaters your boy Slappy faced? The division is one of the best in boxing and Ward has stepped up and beaten the best. Bute is a huge question mark and will be until he fights some decent fighters. Ward UD.
Bute.... has advantage in every department besides inside fighting and chin but chin doesn't matter vs feather fisted Ward. Too fast and powerful for Ward....although neither guy has fought anyone on their level yet so who knows. Bute's been far better vs similar opponents.