Don't underestimate the chance, that this "sellout" will actually be illusionary. With proper paperwork, Karpeles can just hide his ownership of the new "gox".
If gox is in fact sold, then they are doing it sloppy. What they should be doing at the moment are public statements to specify all the details involved. The only goal to buy gox would be to save the integrity of the bitcoin market system. You can't do that while your actions are secretive and unclear.
Currently my money goes on Karpeles just spinning more plates to get as much money out of bitcoin as possible. If the new owners are unknown or like to remain anonymous, then I'm quite sure of it.
Good points - a one man conspiracy! It's funny but although it might sound outlandish it fits better than most theories.
The "mystery buyer" will offer to give stuck customers a fiat bailout to the tune of $160 per Bitcoin - take it or leave it, sorry.
The only problem is where is Mark going to sell so much Bitcoin in such a short time, unless... of course! He drags it on for 6 months!!!