John Cena Reflects on William Regal’s 25‑Year‑Old Praise

On December 13, Cena’s in‑ring career ended at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event. He recalled a comment from former commissioner William Regal, who had told him in a dark match years earlier that he needed a pair of wrestling boots to look like a proper wrestler.

Despite still wearing sneakers in his final bout against GUNTHER, Regal later praised Cena, saying “Even without boots, you’re still a proper wrestler.” The remark, a 25‑year callback, gave Cena a full‑circle moment as he retired.