I'm Canadian, and I am not keen on Bute at all. I consider his style "Kessler Lite" meaning he fights similar to Kessler, but Kessler just does everything so much better.

It appears Bute is being protected also. They are not exactly throwing him in with the wolves right now, and having the IBF belt automatically means his mandatories will be against unknown fighters from the Rain Forrest. He may remain a champion through 2008, but nobody will notice due to him not fighting the best competition.

Pascal at least seems willing to get into the mix now, so props to him for that.