If you were one of the many hoping NXT’s upcoming tour of the United Kingdom meant general manager William Regal would once again come out of semi-retirement and step into the ring, we’ve got some bad news: It’s not happening.
His Lordship recently underwent a laminectomy, also known as decompression surgery, to remove the back part of the vertebra that covers his spinal canal. It’s meant to enlarge the canal and relieve pressure on the nerves. It’s also, barring any recovery miracles or changes to the linear passage of time, the formal end of Regal’s wrestling career.
He shared the following photo and statement on his Twitter, and if “check out the scary after-photo from William Regal’s neck surgery” wasn’t a clear-enough headline, the following image could be difficult to see, and reader discretion is advised.
Look at the state of my luscious locks!Just so you here it from me,I had a c-3 through c-6 Laminectomy last… pic.twitter.com/cVzf98MmjZ
— William Regal (@RealKingRegal) October 30, 2015
Wednesday.I wanted to put it out there so no one can weave a more interesting tale.I'm slowly on the mend.I mean this in all sincerity that
— William Regal (@RealKingRegal) October 30, 2015
I'm not one for sympathy so please no need to tell me Best wishes and the like.Its just part of the life I've choose and wouldn't change….
— William Regal (@RealKingRegal) October 30, 2015
Change a thing.No need to tell me you're praying for me as it would be a wasted prayer.Save that for people who need real help if that's….
— William Regal (@RealKingRegal) October 30, 2015
you're thing.The only thank you is from me to you for allowing me to entertain you for the last 32 years.
— William Regal (@RealKingRegal) October 30, 2015
On a personal note, William (and Lord Steven) Regal is one of my favorite pro wrestlers ever. The amount of knowledge, skill and humility this guy brought to the ring is indescribable, and I’ll be forever thankful for it. We wish him a speedy recovery, even if it’s just so his spine can feel good when he’s in his office deciding whether or not someone should get a freebie title shot.
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