I haven't tested 2010 888s, but I don't like models from 2009 or before. Anyway, I think is more a taste thing more than anyting. Each one has his prefered fork. Reviews could be the lead.
maybe he would prefer the 888's because they were actually rated better than 40's and boxxers in MBUK and MTB action?? Just a thought. Ya it's all about preference but apparently marzocchi did something right with that fork now.
I just love that Marzocchi don't require being cleaned every 5 days, they're simpler than 40 and Boxxer and they're quite strong. And the RC3 Ti version looks brilliant!
You haven't got front brake, so you can tail wip and x-up, but you have a double crow... so why only one brake?