I have nothing but respect for Adam Cole. I've known him for a

Hear the words of Johnny Gargano, who declared with humility and reverence: “I have nothing but respect for Adam Cole. I’ve known him for a very long time, and he’s one of the best in the world.” In this confession we hear not only the praise of one wrestler for another, but a truth that echoes across the ages: that greatness is magnified when even rivals acknowledge each other with honor. For to hold respect for one’s competitor is to rise above envy and rivalry, and to recognize excellence as a sacred thing, worthy of admiration regardless of allegiance.

The meaning of Gargano’s words lies in the recognition that true mastery is rare, and when encountered, it must be honored. In the brutal and theatrical arena of wrestling, where victory and defeat are staged upon the body, it is easy to see an opponent as an enemy. Yet Gargano reveals a higher way: to see beyond rivalry into the heart of greatness itself. To say that Cole is “one of the best in the world” is not to diminish oneself, but to elevate the craft they both serve. Respect here is not weakness, but strength—for only the strong can honor the strength of another without fear.

The origin of this truth comes from the shared journey of both men. Gargano and Cole walked the same roads, trained in the same fires, and faced each other as warriors in the ring. Through battles fought, victories won, and defeats endured, they came to understand one another not merely as opponents but as craftsmen devoted to the same art. Out of that understanding grew a bond of respect, forged not in words but in sweat, pain, and persistence.

History gives us many such examples. Consider the tale of Achilles and Hector upon the walls of Troy. Though one slew the other, their battle became immortal not only for its violence, but for the mutual recognition of valor. Hector knew Achilles’ greatness; Achilles mourned Hector’s nobility after striking him down. Enemies they were, yet through their struggle, respect was born, and their names endure together. So too in wrestling, or in any contest, true warriors understand that their greatness is revealed not in isolation, but in the mirror of their rivals.

The emotional power of Gargano’s words comes from his refusal to let rivalry become hatred. He names Adam Cole not only a worthy foe but a master among men. This humility does not weaken Gargano’s stature—it magnifies it. For to respect others is to demonstrate confidence in one’s own worth. Envy shrinks the soul; respect enlarges it. In honoring Cole, Gargano honors himself and the very craft to which both have given their lives.

The lesson is clear: in your own struggles, learn to recognize greatness in those around you, even in those you compete against. Do not let jealousy poison your heart, but let respect guide you. When you see skill, honor it. When you see devotion, acknowledge it. In this way, you strengthen bonds instead of breaking them, and you ensure that your own journey is shaped by nobility rather than bitterness.

Therefore, let your actions reflect this teaching. In your work, give respect to colleagues and rivals alike. In your home, honor the gifts of others rather than envying them. And in your heart, remember that to call another “the best” does not make you lesser, but makes you greater, for it shows that your eyes are open to truth.

And so, carry forward the wisdom of Gargano’s words: “I have nothing but respect… he’s one of the best in the world.” Let this be not only a tribute to Adam Cole, but a reminder to us all. For respect between rivals is the highest form of honor, and those who walk this path leave behind not only victories, but a legacy of dignity that time itself will remember.