In 2000, William Regal returned to World Wrestling Entertainment and wasted little time becoming one of the top heels in professional wrestling. As the good will ambassador, he attempted to teach Americans about proper manners. As the WWE Commissioner, he blatantly abused his powers and was an almost nauseating suck-up to the evil Mr. McMahon. His wicked, more violent and aggressive turn in late 2001 as a member of the Alliance introduced the world to a new side of the vile Brit while joining the Un-Americans returned him to his elitist, "evil foreigner" ways. One of the most moments of Regal's career as a heel came the night after Survivor Series in November 2001. With his job on the line, he was to be the charter member of the Vince McMahon Kiss My Ass Club. Most thought he would have to find way to play to McMahon's ego but they found out quickly that the title was literal. Regal, in front of an international viewing audience, kissed McMahon's bare backside on Monday Night Raw and somehow got more over for it. In 2008, he enjoyed his greatest run as a baddie in WWE when he was named the General Manager of Raw. Rather than being a traditional villain, Regal showed great command of the role and routinely taunted the audience. He would darken arenas and prematurely end shows if he did not get what he wanted. There were times where he literally could not talk because the heat in the arena was loud enough that no one could hear him. The push was strong and Regal was easily the most over star on either Raw or SmackDown. The plan, as rumor has it, was for Regal to challenge John Cena for the WWE Championship. Unfortunately, a Wellness Policy failure ended any major run with the top prize in the sport. Regal would work ECW as one of the top stars on that brand through the summer of 2009 but for the last five years, he has served in a backstage mentor role. He also scouts talent for the company and is, arguably, the best commentator in NXT. For every vile act he has committed throughout his career, his resume and the respect the fans have for him makes him one of the more popular legends on the payroll.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
