The way I see it is like this......

Joe NOT only needs to fight in the states, it also NEEDS to be against a top opponent.
I say needs cause hes the one that want's to be recognize as the champ. and want's the fans/peoples support.

I sware I mean Hattons made a fan out of me by doing somethings right (hes also pissed me off on other things, but that goes without saying Hattons made some fans by doing so)

I mean why do footy/soccer players leave for Europe?
The moneys there, the approval & recognition is there.

Why do Baseball players come to the States?
Same thing.

Why do Mexican fighters come out here, why do OTHER European Champs. come out here?
TBH, for all I care he could stay over in Whales his whole career just don't go crying talkin' about 'I dont understand why people dont give me the credit I deserve'. Joes earned some skills credit cause hes got them, now he has to put those skills against a top opponent.
That'll earn him the credit/approval of the fans/people.