Perception is reality. Trump declared himself as winner in every debate and made sure he mentioned it in every interview and said every expert said I won. Most interviewers dont have time to get back and forth with him about that statement. So he doesnt have to win the debate on issues. Most people dont know policies either. But as long as he doesnt lose his temper and just deflect everything and refuse to talk policies. He will win. I still have a feeling his temper will get the better of himI think people misunderstand what is impressive and winning in a debate. Seems like people grade name calling, deflecting questions with more insults to the opponent or moderator, and yelling over your opponent is seen as doing well. The whole trump phenomenon has really left me not upset with trump because he really doesn't have the power here. The people to be mad at is the people who enable him with their support and enable ignorance day after day. If trump was the real problem here and not the general public, he wouldn't be one of the main nominees this year.
Also, I don't think he will skip. He's doing this to make the news and appear to get "leverage".