I really think that james looked worse, than in the first fight and really blew any pretext he had of representing himself as a top heavyweight,never mind a legit contender.

RE the Peter/ Toney fight:

The Toney/Peter II was the best and worst thing that could have happened to each fighter.

Peter improved Tremendously! Showed a great desire and work ethic in his training, even missing going home for Christmas to train. Erased the controversy of the first fight.
Made EVERYONE fall in love with him by his gracious and humble comments post fight. Showed that he is the best guy to take on the rest of the Heavyweight divison. Came in leaner,increased his punch output,showcased his skills and won the hearts of millions.

Point by point. James Toney did exactly the opposite!

Peter really improved. Erased the dispute about the first fight.
Came in better shape. Toney didn't do himself any favors here at all and the post fight yapping made it worse.

To quote Al bernstein "Peter is on the cusp of becomeing a really complete fighter which many people felt previously was not possible"
and
"Peter showed the world that he is better for the HW division than James Toney"
I fully agree.