10 Ways Wrestlers Became The Most Badass Versions Of Themselves

6. Johnny Gargano: Stole The Show

Becky Lynch PAC
WWE Network

Johnny Gargano, like partner-turned-rival-turned-friend Tommaso Ciampa, has found his perfect home in WWE NXT. Here, in Triple H's developmental pet project, the 31-year-old has become the best version of himself, surpassing even his outstanding run as a heel ace in Gabe Sapolsky's Dragon Gate USA and EVOLVE promotions through one of the most impressive NXT tenures ever.

He's been an outstanding wrestler for years, but Gargano didn't start peaking as a performer until he entered the NXT Title hunt. TakeOver: Philadelphia's clash with Andrade 'Cien' Almas was the first match to receive Dave Meltzer's five-star acclaim since CM Punk vs. John Cena at Money In The Bank 2011. From there, 'Johnny TakeOver' has continued as WWE's big-match master, delivering acclaimed performances in the Ciampa trilogy, against Aleister Black at WarGames II, and, of course, in the recent Adam Cole series. For many, his big bouts are the most reliable "sure things" in WWE. Those same people would argue his position among the best in the world.

All wrestling is subjective, but it's hard to disagree on current form, given how wide-reaching Gargano's critical acclaim is.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.