John Cena Retires, Gets 25‑Year Praise From William Regal

On December 13, John Cena’s in‑ring career ended at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event. During a podcast interview, Cena recalled how William Regal, then‑WWE commissioner, had once told him that if he bought a pair of boots he would look like a proper wrestler. The comment, made during a dark match, became a 25‑year callback when Regal praised Cena after his final match.

Despite still wearing his signature sneakers for the bout against GUNTHER, Cena said Regal’s words—“Even without boots, you’re still a proper wrestler”—were the full‑circle praise he had longed for. The veteran’s honest feedback, delivered with a stiff upper lip, remains a memorable moment in Cena’s storied career.