In a heartwarming revelation, Johnny Gargano, the beloved former “NXT” Champion, opens up about his triumphant return to WWE after a poignant nine-month hiatus. His absence from the squared circle wasn’t a departure from passion but a pause for an equally meaningful endeavor – starting a family with his cherished wife, Candice LeRae, who also made her return to the spotlight alongside him in 2022.
During a candid conversation on the “Insight with Chris Van Vliet” podcast, Johnny Gargano shared insights into his journey back to WWE, shedding light on the profound sentiment of “unfinished business” that drew him back to the grand stage. Gargano expressed a deep sense of attachment to WWE and a desire to continue his legacy within the company, driven by the opportunity to create lasting moments and cement his place in wrestling history.
For Gargano, returning to WWE represents more than just a professional endeavor; it’s a personal quest to leave a lasting impact and fulfill his aspirations within the industry. The opportunity to reconnect with the WWE Universe, showcase his skills on a global platform, and pursue championship glory once again fueled his decision to embark on this new chapter of his career.
Despite the allure of exploring opportunities elsewhere during his free agency period, Gargano’s heart remained tethered to WWE, a place where childhood dreams of WrestleMania glory and championship gold were forged.
“People ask me all the time, did you think about going to other places? Obviously, we all entertain the idea. But when I left, I always felt like I had unfinished business in WWE,” Gargano mused, his words resonating with an unwavering commitment to his dreams. “And when the conversations were being had, it was one of those things where when I was a little kid growing up, I watched WWE. I dreamed of wrestling at WrestleMania. I dreamed of becoming Intercontinental Champion. I think all these things I said in my return promo, pretty much. They’re all very real, very true. Those are very real dreams I still do have to this day, and I can only do that one place.”
Dispelling speculations that his departure was spurred by discontent over the rebranding of “NXT” in 2021, Gargano affirmed that his exit wasn’t driven by resentment or dissatisfaction with his standing within the company. Rather, it was a deeply personal decision fueled by impending parenthood and the need for a rejuvenating hiatus. Yet, amidst the joy of impending fatherhood, the allure of WWE remained unwaveringly potent, beckoning Gargano back into its fold.
As WWE WrestleMania 40 looms on the horizon, Gargano finds himself on the precipice of potentially fulfilling those childhood dreams he once held dear. With his return to the spotlight, the stage is set for a triumphant chapter in the storied career of Johnny Gargano, a testament to the enduring power of passion, family, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.