The Rebel Heart
< span class="quick-fact-detail">Height: 5 ft 10 in
Age: 36
Retired? NO
Real Name: John Anthony Nicholas Gargano
Net Worth: $2 million (2023)
Tattoos: Multiple, including a large chest piece and arm tattoos
Johnny Gargano is a professional wrestler known for his time in WWE's NXT brand and the independent circuit. Trained in Cleveland, Ohio, he gained recognition for his technical wrestling ability and high-energy performances. Gargano has held multiple championships and is often referred to as "Johnny Wrestling."
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Johnny Gargano?
Johnny Gargano is an American professional wrestler currently signed to WWE, where he performs on the Raw brand. He is best known for his time in NXT, where he became a 3-time NXT North American Champion and 1-time NXT Champion.
What is Johnny Gargano's wrestling nickname?
Johnny Gargano is often referred to by his nickname 'Johnny Wrestling', a moniker that highlights his technical wrestling skills and popularity among fans.
Is Johnny Gargano married to a wrestler?
Yes, Johnny Gargano is married to fellow professional wrestler Candice LeRae, who has also competed in WWE and NXT. The couple got married in 2016.
What wrestling promotions has Johnny Gargano worked for?
Before joining WWE, Johnny Gargano wrestled for various independent promotions, including Chikara, Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG), and Evolve. He is also known for his work in Dragon Gate USA.
Did Johnny Gargano ever leave WWE?
Yes, Johnny Gargano briefly left WWE in December 2021 after his contract expired. However, he returned in August 2022 during an episode of Raw, making a surprise appearance.
Wrestler Connections:
Johnny Gargano
Johnny Gargano, known as "Johnny Wrestling," has forged significant connections with several wrestlers throughout his career. Here are five key figures linked to him:
Tommaso Ciampa
Gargano's most storied rivalry and partnership is with Tommaso Ciampa. Together, they formed #DIY in NXT, capturing the NXT Tag Team Championship and engaging in a deeply personal feud that defined the brand for years.
Candice LeRae
Gargano is married to fellow wrestler Candice LeRae. The couple has teamed up both in and out of the ring, supporting each other through various storylines and challenges in NXT and beyond.
Austin Theory
Gargano had a notable mentorship and later rivalry with Austin Theory during their time in The Way faction on NXT, where Gargano played a comedic yet guiding role in Theory's early development.
Indi Hartwell
As part of The Way, Gargano also had a humorous on-screen relationship with Indi Hartwell, often involved in segments that highlighted his character's quirky leadership and family dynamics within the group.
Dexter Lumis
Gargano's involvement with The Way included interactions with Dexter Lumis, particularly in storylines where Lumis' infatuation with Indi Hartwell created tension and comedic moments, with Gargano often serving as the exasperated leader.
Controversial Moments:
Johnny Gargano's Controversial Moments in Wrestling
1. NXT Championship Win Against Adam Cole
Johnny Gargano's victory over Adam Cole for the NXT Championship at NXT TakeOver: New York in 2019 was met with mixed reactions. While many fans celebrated Gargano's long-awaited title win, others criticized the booking decision, arguing that Cole's dominant Undisputed ERA faction should have retained the gold. The match itself was praised, but the outcome sparked debates about NXT's creative direction.
2. Feud with Tommaso Ciampa Turning Sour
Gargano's real-life friendship with Tommaso Ciampa deteriorated during their intense NXT feud in 2018. Reports suggested backstage tensions arose due to the storyline's personal nature, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. While their matches were critically acclaimed, the fallout led to speculation about their off-screen relationship, which both parties later downplayed.
3. Criticism for Overly Long Matches
Gargano has faced criticism from some fans and analysts for his tendency to wrestle lengthy, high-spot matches, particularly during his NXT run. Detractors argued that his bouts often exceeded necessary runtime, sacrificing storytelling for excessive near-falls. This style polarized audiences, with some praising his workrate while others found it exhausting.
4. WWE Main Roster Debut Delay
Gargano's prolonged stay in NXT despite multiple call-up rumors became a point of contention. Some fans believed WWE creative had no clear plans for him on the main roster, while others argued he was better utilized in NXT. The situation grew more controversial when Gargano eventually debuted on Raw in 2022 to little fanfare, fueling debates about WWE's handling of NXT call-ups.
5. Alleged Backstage Heat During #DIY Split
Rumors circulated about backstage tension between Gargano and Ciampa during their initial #DIY breakup in 2017. Some reports suggested creative differences over the angle's execution, though both wrestlers denied serious issues. The speculation nonetheless created controversy among fans invested in their storyline.
Entering 2025 Wrestling Season
Johnny Gargano's Career Overview Entering 2025
As Johnny Gargano entered the 2025 wrestling season, he was widely regarded as one of the most accomplished and versatile performers in professional wrestling. Known for his technical prowess, high-flying ability, and compelling storytelling, Gargano had solidified his legacy as a top-tier talent across multiple promotions, including WWE and the independent circuit.
Recent Achievements and Momentum
Leading into 2025, Gargano had experienced a resurgence in his career. After returning to WWE in late 2023, he quickly reestablished himself as a fan favorite, engaging in high-profile rivalries and capturing mid-card championships. His matches continued to receive critical acclaim, further cementing his reputation as one of the best in-ring competitors of his generation.
Character Evolution and Fan Connection
Gargano's character had evolved significantly by 2025. While he initially gained fame as an underdog babyface, he had experimented with darker, more nuanced personas, showcasing his range as a performer. His connection with the audience remained strong, whether he was playing a hero or a villain, thanks to his authenticity and emotional storytelling.
Future Prospects and Potential
Heading into 2025, speculation swirled about Gargano's next steps. Many fans and analysts believed he was poised for a main-event push, potentially contending for a world championship. Others wondered if he might explore opportunities outside WWE, given his history as a top independent star. Regardless of the path he chose, Gargano's skill and dedication ensured he would remain a key figure in wrestling for years to come.
Awards and Honors:
NXT Championship:
Johnny Gargano won the NXT Championship once during his tenure in WWE NXT.
NXT North American Championship:
Gargano captured the NXT North American Championship twice, showcasing his dominance in the mid-card division.
NXT Tag Team Championship:
As part of the team #DIY with Tommaso Ciampa, Gargano won the NXT Tag Team Championship once.
WWE Cruiserweight Classic Semi-Finalist:
Gargano reached the semi-finals of the 2016 WWE Cruiserweight Classic, earning recognition for his high-flying abilities.
PWI Match of the Year (2018):
His unsanctioned match against Tommaso Ciampa at NXT TakeOver: New Orleans was named Match of the Year by Pro Wrestling Illustrated.
PWI Match of the Year (2021):
Gargano's triple threat match against Adam Cole and Pete Dunne at NXT TakeOver: Vengeance Day was also awarded Match of the Year by PWI.
NXT Year-End Award for Male Competitor of the Year (2018):
Gargano was voted Male Competitor of the Year by NXT fans in 2018.
NXT Year-End Award for Match of the Year (2018):
His match against Andrade 'Cien' Almas at NXT TakeOver: Philadelphia won Match of the Year in NXT's year-end awards.
Chikara Campeonatos de Parejas:
Before WWE, Gargano won the Chikara Campeonatos de Parejas (Tag Team Championship) with Chuck Taylor.
AIW Absolute Championship:
Gargano held the Absolute Intense Wrestling (AIW) Absolute Championship, a top title in the independent circuit.
Dragon Gate USA Open the Freedom Gate Championship:
He was the longest-reigning Open the Freedom Gate Champion in Dragon Gate USA history.
Net Worth:
Johnny Gargano's Net Worth in 2023
As of 2023, Johnny Gargano's estimated net worth is approximately $2 million. This wealth has been accumulated through his successful career in professional wrestling, merchandise sales, and appearances in major promotions like WWE and NXT.
Sources of Income
Gargano's earnings come from multiple streams, including:
- WWE/NXT Contracts: His primary income source during his tenure with WWE.
- Independent Wrestling: Earnings from promotions like EVOLVE and PWG before joining WWE.
- Merchandise Sales: Sales of branded apparel and collectibles.
- Sponsorships & Appearances: Paid partnerships and fan meet-and-greets.
Career Highlights Contributing to His Net Worth
Gargano's wrestling career has been marked by several high-profile achievements:
- NXT Championship Reigns: Multiple title wins, including the NXT North American and Tag Team Championships.
- Main Roster Debut: Transition to WWE's Raw and SmackDown brands in 2022.
- Independent Circuit Success: Acclaimed matches in promotions outside WWE.
Future Earnings Potential
With his return to WWE in 2023, Gargano's net worth is expected to grow due to:
- Renewed Contracts: Potential for higher-paying deals with WWE.
- Expanded Brand Deals: Opportunities for sponsorships and media appearances.
- Long-Term Career Prospects: Continued relevance in wrestling and entertainment.
Watch this video about the wrestler Johnny Gargano:
Action Figure of Johnny Gargano
