Don, Hahn & Rosenberg
Episode: Hour 4: Cena's Last RAW
Date: November 18, 2025
Hosts: Peter Rosenberg, (Don) Hahn
Network: ESPN New York
Episode Overview
This hour is a celebration and reflection on John Cena's final appearance on WWE Raw at Madison Square Garden. Peter Rosenberg, joined by Anthony and callers, pays tribute to Cena's impact on wrestling fans and pop culture, recounting favorite memories, discussing his legacy, and speculating about Cena’s last match and the surprises in store for the show. The tone is nostalgic, excited, and, at times, playful, blending personal stories, music talk, and New York sports updates.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
Celebrating John Cena’s Legacy (00:44–06:14)
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Rosenberg’s Appreciation for Cena’s Rap Album
- Rosenberg recalls Cena's underappreciated hip-hop album, playing favorite tracks and expressing surprise at its quality.
- Quote: "I'm telling you, the John Cena album is not bad. It's very straight ahead... the beats are pretty cool. He's a fun listen. He's not bad." – Peter Rosenberg (17:32)
- Reminisces about potentially awkward backstage encounters discussing Cena’s music.
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Cena’s Last Day at Madison Square Garden
- Rosenberg suggests WWE should document Cena’s backstage interactions that day, comparing it to the “Michael Jordan Last Dance” documentary and presidential photo ops.
- Quote: “On the last day, you guys should just keep a photographer on him... So when people see him and talk to him, they can all get photos just done.” – Peter Rosenberg (02:25)
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Fan Calls: Cena Memories & Emotional Impact
- Multiple callers recount iconic Cena moments:
- Wrestlemania 21 victory and memories of family (03:46–04:17)
- Cena’s 2008 Royal Rumble return at MSG (04:39–05:07)
- Rosenberg candidly shares that, for him, the Rumble return was somewhat predictable, but for many fans (especially kids), it was truly electrifying.
- Quote: "I always thought that moment got a little overhyped because, like, I expected him to come back... But I was already pretty old, guys." – Peter Rosenberg (04:39)
- Multiple callers recount iconic Cena moments:
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Changing Feelings Over Time
- Reflecting on the “Cena sucks” chants of old, Rosenberg and callers discuss how widespread respect has replaced old animosity.
- Quote: “It’s crazy how things change... you’re a ‘Cena sucks’ guy. And then you look up and you’re like, oh, man. But he was such a part of my whole being into this whole thing.” – Peter Rosenberg (06:14)
WWE Nostalgia, Throwback Fashion, and the New York Connection (17:32–19:29)
- Cena, Throwbacks, and NYC Hip-Hop Culture
- Rosenberg and Anthony reminisce about the fashion of the Cena era—NBA jersey throwbacks, both personal stories and Cena’s influence.
- Quote: "Cena was wearing the throwbacks every time... at that point, the only Knick throwback that I probably was acceptable at the time was probably a Sprewell or Houston." – Anthony (18:41)
- Discuss bizarre finds at the Lids store, including unexpected team jerseys still for sale (e.g., Marcus Camby).
Looking Ahead: Cena’s Final Match Speculation (19:45–22:37)
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Anticipation for Cena’s MSG Farewell
- Callers and Rosenberg speculate on who Cena’s final opponent might be, and the possibility of a major returning superstar to cap off his last Raw.
- Theories range from Chris Jericho to Zack Ryder to outside chances like Joe Hendry.
- Quote: "If they brought Zack Ryder back in Albany, doesn't that mean that they had someone bigger that they were bringing back tonight?" – Peter Rosenberg (20:12)
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The Challenge of Surprises
- Rosenberg reflects on WWE’s capacity to deliver unexpected moments, relishing the anticipation and uncertainty of tonight's show.
- Quote: "I love that. I go into this show and I have no idea what the moment is going to be... I don't know who it's going to be." – Peter Rosenberg (22:35)
Community, Banter & Listener Engagement (09:01–23:58)
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Running Gags & Apologies
- Ongoing friendly disputes between regular callers (Danny, Lonnie) and hosts are addressed, with Rosenberg lightheartedly forgiving past on-air conflicts.
- Memorable Moment: A caller casually mentions a violent past incident during a heated story, leaving Rosenberg and Hahn speechless and amused. (10:25–11:43)
- Quote: "Putting someone in a coma part was a little bit scary. Anyone notice that part slip right under the radar there?... My man, Danny, chill, bro. Buried the lead, my man." – Peter Rosenberg (10:54)
- The YouTube chat’s reaction to apologies and show drama is acknowledged for humor and connection.
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NY Sports Sidebar
- Quick analysis of the New York Giants head coach’s bold decisions and praise for his honesty post-game. (12:11–12:49)
- Richard calls in with a personal New York story tied to a Packers coach and neighborhood roots, blending sports discussion with local history. (13:31–15:12)
- A brief Knicks update and a reminder about upcoming NXT tapings at MSG. (25:56–26:45)
WWE Industry Insights & Host Projects (26:44–28:01)
- Behind the Scenes of Wrestling Media
- Rosenberg shares personal excitement for calling Evolve title matches for NXT, showing the intersection of fandom, broadcasting, and personal achievement.
Notable Quotes & Timestamps
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On Cena’s Album Surprising Quality
"I'm telling you, the John Cena album is not bad. It's... actually a fun listen."
– Peter Rosenberg (17:32) -
On WWE Capturing Cena’s Final Day
"On the last day, you guys should just keep a photographer on him... So when people see him and talk to him, they can all get photos just done. And your last moment talking to him is just like... the president."
– Peter Rosenberg (02:25) -
Reflecting on Shifting Cena Reactions
"It's crazy how things change... you're a 'Cena sucks' guy. And then you look up and you're like, oh, man. But he was such a part of my whole being into this whole thing."
– Peter Rosenberg (06:14) -
On WWE Surprises
"I go into this show and I have no idea what the moment is going to be... I don't know who it's going to be."
– Peter Rosenberg (22:35) -
Caller Story Escalation
"Putting someone in a coma part was a little bit scary. Anyone notice that part slip right under the radar?... My man, Danny, chill, bro. Buried the lead, my man."
– Peter Rosenberg (10:54)
Key Timestamps
- 00:44–06:14 – Cena’s legacy, calls from fans, favorite moments, Rosenberg’s return wrestling story
- 17:32–19:29 – Throwback jersey nostalgia, Cena’s fashion influence, Lids store stories
- 19:45–22:37 – Speculation on Cena’s opponent, potential surprises, wrestling rumors
- 09:01–11:43 – Apology call from Danny, buried lead of violent past
- 13:31–15:12 – NY sports and local culture stories
- 26:44–28:01 – WWE media projects, NXT/Evolve preview
Overall Tone and Takeaways
- Nostalgic, irreverent, energetic, and heartfelt—the episode is a testament to the significance of Cena’s career and his place in both wrestling history and the lives of fans.
- Blends pop culture, New York sports, and WWE with personal stories and friendly trash talk.
- Essential listening for anyone interested in Cena’s legacy, wrestling’s place in sports media, and the unique community built around New York sports radio.
For those who missed it:
This episode is a spirited blend of WWE tribute, New York sports analysis, hilarious call-in stories, and everything that makes Don, Hahn & Rosenberg a unique radio family—anchored here by Peter Rosenberg’s passion for both wrestling and the city that made him a fan.