"losing side in debates on hotcopper 7 times out of 8"
You're right - if the measure of success is upvotes on HC, your side is winning, no doubt about it.
If the measure of success is making money,
@Gold Bugs Bunny was was almost winning with a 7.5 bagger, but didn't quite pull the trigger (but some others presumably did, because trades did occur at that price).
If the measure of success is talk about 2022 being a breakout year, because the mythical shackles have been released then
@MSQ9 is winning.
If the measure of success is selling your shares for breakeven or more, I don't reckon up-rampers are winning any time soon.