9 Johnny Gargano WWE Attires Inspired By Superheroes (And Their Hidden Meanings)
8. TakeOver: Philadelphia - Star Lord
With an assured smile that rarely feels overtly cocky and in-ring skills that are arguably unparalleled, it's hard to dislike Johnny Wrestling. Much like Star Lord’s characterization in Guardians of the Galaxy, Gargano has frequently been painted as the good-hearted hero of NXT who wants to entertain the fans. While able to get serious when necessary, Johnny Wrestling was unable to win the so-called "big one" but still seemed contented with the adoration he received.
At TakeOver: Philadelphia, Johnny fully embodied the much loved Guardians leader when he appeared in an entrance vest which clearly aped the hero's signature maroon leather jacket. Squaring off with Andrade Almas, Gargano was all smiles before the bout before turning deadly serious for the work that lay ahead. Unfortunately, the NXT title stayed with Almas as Johnny once again failed to achieve his ultimate dream.
In hindsight, the choice to cosplay as a character named Star Lord proved cleverly fitting if only for the fact that the match earned Gargano his first-ever five star rating in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter from Dave Meltzer.