I don't want to see that fight. I want Bute to fight in the tournament, but Ward will not allow him in, if he were to get in Ward would refuse to fight. Ward already refused to fight in the tournament unless all his fights were in his hometowwn, "all" of them!
Well, you know my answer to that question. So since you bring it up. Which fight would people rather see and which win would give Bute more respect? Bute / Johnson or Bute / Miranda?
I think in terms of visibility, Miranda would be better. In terms of respect, I'm not sure. If Johnson was 2 years younger, I wouldn't have any doubts but as for now... Miranda has faced Pavlik, Abraham and Ward, three very high profile fighters. Johnson has faced Dawson recently... plus the rest of his career. I would be happy with any of them. Of course, I don't know the name of the third potential fighter ...
Bute by wide UD. Johnson has finally lost it. He'll never be a top competitor in the sport again. Old age sucks ass, but it's the reality of his situation. I'd like to see Johnson retire sometime soon before he ends up a completely shop worn bum.