If Hayden ends up with the most points, however he come to it, he will earn my respect.
To me, it takes more than just winning races. You have to prove that you are the most consistent the entire season, not just the best rider for part of it. To me, that is what Rossi has been. The best rider for PART of the season. Sure he has won quite a few races, but he also didn't finish some. That, IMHO, is what makes a champion. Those that can take as amny points they can get even when they are not running the greatest.
Some of you will say Hayden got lucky, if he wins. Well, that is true. Just like you could say Rossi was unlucky. Doesn't matter, really. The one that ends the season with the most points, is the champion. Doesn't matter how he got the most points.