*Warning* n00b-with-a-theory post ...

My take on this is that Ray's dad appearing suddenly is not a coincidence. I think Beef anonymously placed a call to Ramses (or he's a fake, remember Ray's Uncle?), knowing full well the effect it would have on Ray. Hiding in the trash and planting the false story of his beatdown was too Machiavellian. Beef must have known that the only way he could win was to have Ray take out the field and then take him out by exploiting this weakness. When the next strip drops, it'll be Ray beating down Beef at first, Beef taking it until the image of seeing Beef bloody drives Ray to the brink, then Beef springing into action and taking him out with one blow. Or not. It's just my opinion.

Also, as far as Beef not being respected for only taking out one man, I think he would be more respected for the planning and strategy this required. Ramses certainly respects him.

I apologize in advance if this line of thinking was already explored.

B.