Johnny Gargano’s current WWE storyline is getting a lot of criticism. Fans and analysts say the character does not fit him and has hurt his image on the main roster.
What happened with the storyline
Gargano started a feud with Axiom and Nathan Frazer where he stole Axiom’s mask and kept it for several weeks. Axiom eventually regained the mask in a match by using two masks, and then beat Gargano in singles action. After losing the mask, Gargano began showing severe sadness on TV. He was often mute, distant and needed comforting from his wife, Candice LeRae.
Fans and critics react
Many viewers say the angle makes no sense and weakens Gargano. The mask plot did not feel important for him, yet his character acted as if it mattered deeply. That made the moments look overdone and confused many fans.
On top of the mask loss, Gargano has had a few bad-looking moments on TV. He was recently squashed by Oba Femi in a match that left him looking like a joke. He also earned a North American Title shot on an NXT episode after a fluke pin rather than a strong performance. These moments have added to the view that he is now being booked as a lower-card performer.
Gargano’s past and what he could be
Gargano was once the face of NXT. He rose to the top there as a classic underdog babyface. He won titles and had several matches that fans and critics praised. Many believe he still has the skills and personality to be a major star on the main roster, at least in the midcard level.
When Gargano returned to WWE in 2022, he spent long stretches with little direction. He later reunited with Tommaso Ciampa as part of DIY, but that team did not reach the heights many expected on SmackDown. Fans and analysts say WWE has not given Gargano the booking he needs to shine.
Should Gargano consider leaving WWE?
Some voices suggest Gargano should think about his future outside WWE. His former partner Tommaso Ciampa left WWE and has found early success in AEW. Those critics argue Gargano could regain his top form with a new promotion and better creative direction.
UFCcoverage reports that the current booking has damaged Gargano’s main roster standing. Supporters say he still has the in-ring talent to be a strong babyface if he gets better stories and clearer wins. For now, fans will watch closely to see whether WWE changes course or Gargano decides to move on.
