True, a win against Mundine would give more credit to Bute than a win against Berrio, even if it's for the IBF belt.... But financially speaking, it would more profitable for both side if Bute would get the belt first... so why do it now?
Yes, Lucas said this, and added that he would be ready for Kessler after Bute had claimed the IBF next year. Not being ready for Kessler was the very reason to deroute for the IBF belt.
Is Mundine really on the cards though? Could he fight in say, 4-5 months, or make that 6 if you will...? Doesn't he have all sorts of problems? Of course I would vote for a fight against Mundine too! But hopefully it will be Berrio first because it will give him the belt and that's what he always wanted. Then, next year, Mundine, as a first defence, then another one, maybe Inkin (?) and then one of the big guys...how about that?
Would be great to see him against Mundine and Inkin. After that, there will only be one guy left in the division; Kessler. However, I rate Mundine-Kessler rematch as more likely than Mundine-Bute. So maybe Mundine-Kessler and Bute-Inkin/Froch/Andrade. Then the fight for all belts.
:happy:happy:happy. It's rather funny, if it all pans out this way, especially if Bute wins over Kessler. Bute: Toney, Tatevosian, Bika, Berrio, Inkin, Kessler. Kessler: Mundine, Beyer, Andrade, Calzaghe, Mundine. Who says that boxing has to be fair.
let's first wait and see if Bute makes it past Berrio and Mundine and if Kessler makes it past Calzaghe...in which case, Kessler would be a BIG favourite over Bute...
I don't think they want Mundine. And I really doubt Mundine gives a damn about Bute. I beleive there were 2 reasons why Bute is going after the IBF. 1- Weaker champion 2- Easier to get a fight against that champion. Let's face it. Even if he was their mandatory. Bute would most likely never get a fight against Kessler or Calzaghe. Those guys are looking for big fights and big paydays. They don't care about Bute. I think what they want is to win a belt and make a few titles defenses to have more experience at the top level. If Bute wins the belt. Look for him to make title defenses against guys like Beyer, Lacy, Tsypko, Andrade, etc...
So, Maxime, after Berrio, in what order do you see Bute making these fights? And when will Kessler v. Bute take place?