In reality it'll be the guy that is willing to explore the limits of whatever bike he's on and has the skill to use it. Yes a sportbike is more capable but if all the rider does is run fast on the straights and cruise the main drag... There are a lot of sportbike riders out there that can only outrun me on a straight.
I'd agree with Homeslice, the one that started on dirt at 5 and never quit riding