That would be an interesting fight to see. I'm a fan of Guzman and would like to see him in a fight where he'd have some real troubles. I don't think Chris John would be that guy, and I didn't think Guzman/Barrios was that close, but he should get a big fight eventually. The one thing I've been against lately is the term "marketability", that is a disgusting term IMO and think it becomes a bit bias on how entertaining a fighter is rather than how good he is.
It's really sad that HBO hasn't hyped Guzman like they have with much inferior fighters. He's one of the most exciting and talented fighters in the world who isn't afraid of fighting anyone, but he gets so little respect. Guzman would beat Chris John by a near shutout, with some rounds given to John only because of his inactivity and messing around defensively. He would have an easier time landing on John than Marquez had, especially with the right hand because of his greater speed and awkwardness. John is slick, but he doesn't have what I would call elite level slickness or reflexes. Guzman could walk through anything John throws and he would tear him apart with combinations on the inside. John wouldn't take this fight in a million years though. :-( Hopefully the Pacquiao-Marquez winner will fight the true 130 pound challenger this year.
Chris John isn't even the best in the division, well imo he isn't. Jorge Linares should expose him sooner or later.
i think that the 4 pound jump to 130 would not affect john much but i really don't see him beating guzman.
Guzman is ****ing huge compared to John even though they only fight 1 division apart. Guzman weighed 148lbs on fight night against Soto
John by close decision. Could go either way though. I do think John is a better boxer generally, although his more orthodox style might be ripe for picking. It would be a horrible fight though. Like 5 punches would land a round. They're both way too defensive for it to make good boxing. Both guys would be trying to potshot the other and get out of the way when the other comes in. I doubt the size difference would come into play. Their reach is about the same, John has a chin, and Guzman is feathery fisted for someone as built as he is.