Former WWE superstar Hornswoggle (Dylan Postl) has opened up emotionally about John Cena’s retirement from in-ring competition, calling the 17-time World Champion “the greatest human ever” and revealing why Cena’s farewell hit harder than those of legends like Stone Cold Steve Austin, Ric Flair, and Shawn Michaels.
In a heartfelt interview on WrestlingNewsCo’s Velvet Ropes podcast (late December 2025), Hornswoggle shared his raw reaction to Cena’s final match at Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13, 2025, where Cena tapped out to Gunther in a sleeper hold, marking the end of his iconic career.
Hornswoggle recounted watching WWE’s official tribute video—featuring messages from wrestlers, crew, and staff—while flying home from an appearance:
“Man, I was bawling like a baby on the flight… I cannot put a finger on why this one is hitting the wrestling community so big. I think it truly is because John Cena is just the greatest human ever. I think that’s it, and I think that’s why.”
He contrasted it with past retirements:
- Ric Flair’s “last match” stipulations (and later returns).
- Shawn Michaels’ emotional farewell (followed by comebacks).
- Stone Cold Steve Austin walking away after WrestleMania (only to return years later for one more match).
Hornswoggle emphasized that Cena’s definitive goodbye—after a year-long farewell tour announced in 2024—feels permanent and profound, amplified by Cena’s unparalleled character and contributions both in and out of the ring.
The two shared memorable moments during WWE’s Ruthless Aggression and PG eras, including teaming up in the 2011 Royal Rumble and comedic segments that highlighted Hornswoggle’s underdog persona alongside Cena’s superhero-like presence.
Hornswoggle’s praise echoes widespread sentiment in the wrestling world, where Cena is celebrated not just for his in-ring dominance (record-tying 16 World Titles, later 17) but for his Make-A-Wish record (over 650 grants), military support, and genuine kindness backstage.
As 2026 begins, Cena transitions fully to Hollywood and ambassador roles, leaving a legacy that, as Hornswoggle puts it, resonates because he’s simply “the greatest human ever.”