Johnny Gargano

Biography

Born on August 14, 1987, in Cleveland, Ohio, John Anthony Nicholas Gargano is an American professional wrestler better known as Johnny Gargano. He has made a significant impact in WWE’s NXT brand and is often referred to as “Johnny Wrestling.”

Early Career

Gargano began his professional wrestling career in 2005, working for various independent promotions. He gained significant recognition in promotions like Chikara, Dragon Gate USA, and Pro Wrestling Guerrilla before signing with WWE in 2015.

Signature Moves and Attire

Johnny Gargano’s finishing move, the “Gargano Escape,” is a chickenwing over the shoulder crossface. He also frequently uses a slingshot spear, diving through the ropes to strike his opponent.
Gargano’s ring attire typically consists of long tights and boots, often incorporating the colors and designs inspired by comic book characters.

Entrance Music

Gargano’s theme music, “Rebel Heart” by CFO$, helps set the stage for his fiery, resilient in-ring persona.

Major Rivalries

Gargano has had several intense rivalries in NXT. His feud with Tommaso Ciampa stands out as one of the most personal and emotional storylines in the brand’s history. He’s also had significant feuds with Adam Cole, Andrade, and Finn Balor.

Titles and Achievements

In NXT, Gargano is the first Triple Crown Champion, having won the NXT Championship, the NXT North American Championship, and the NXT Tag Team Championship (with Tommaso Ciampa as #DIY).

Tag Team Partners

Gargano’s most notable tag team partnership is with Tommaso Ciampa. The pair, known as #DIY, achieved great success, including a reign as NXT Tag Team Champions.

Big Matches

Gargano has been a part of numerous standout matches in NXT. His battles with Ciampa at NXT TakeOver: New Orleans and with Adam Cole at NXT TakeOver: New York are widely regarded as some of the best matches in NXT history.

Career Evolution

Gargano’s journey in NXT has seen him evolve from an underdog to a main event star. Starting as a lovable underdog who could never quite win the big one, Gargano eventually reached the top of NXT, winning the brand’s top title and cementing his legacy as one of NXT’s greatest stars.

Family Life

Gargano is married to fellow professional wrestler Candice LeRae. The pair often appear together on NXT, teaming up in mixed tag team matches or supporting each other in their individual pursuits.

Sponsorships

While WWE superstars generally do not have individual sponsorships, Gargano, like other WWE talents, is often featured in WWE’s partnerships with companies like Mattel for action figures and 2K for video games.
In conclusion, Johnny Gargano’s contributions to NXT and his incredible in-ring performances have solidified his place as one of the brand’s all-time greats. His story of resilience and determination has connected with fans worldwide, making him one of the most beloved figures in modern professional wrestling.