First of all, I don't believe the Kessler/Calzaghe question as much reflects on Kessler's inability as much as it does on Ward's ability. Kessler is at the upper echelon of smw's as is Calzaghe, but maybe Ward's the best smw of all time? Also, Calzaghe's reputation shouldn't take a hit until we can adequately discredit Kessler. One loss against a potentially superstar in Ward doesn't cut it. For example, if Kessler dominates Froch and beats his next opponent and Ward wins the whole thing and doesn't lose for twenty fights, Calzaghe's legacy remains looking pretty good.

To the point of the post, styles definitely make fights. But when fighter A and C have similar styles, and A beats B, most likely C will beat B too.