I agree with this sentiment about Cao Cao being the best warlord. Liu Bei just happened to have the best advisors and some of the best generals at his side, and prevented others from having the same.    One of the most infuriating instances between the two was when Lu Bu was captured by Cao Cao, and Cao Cao was having tea with Liu Bei. He asked Liu Bei if he would spare Lu Bu. Lu Bu, a skilled warrior, would have become a problem for Liu Bei in the future so he convinced Cao Cao to kill him... completely disregarding the fact that Lu Bu had saved him before. I really don't understand how someone like this is usually presented as the "hero" of the Three Kingdoms.