I'm from the states, and I think I can speak for a majority of Americans in this regard, Calzaghe gained a lot of respect by tearing up Lacy, but since then it has been lost, by his fight choice. While Americans recognize Peter Manfredo, it's not like anyone here thinks he is worth a fight with the champ yet.

JC DID give up his IBF title to fight a "Contender Runner-up"
He should have fought Glenn Johnson, he's backed out of fights with him 3 times now.

Kessler still has the WBC and WBA titles and will be defending both against Librado Andrade