An emotional Gargano ran through his NXT journey, discussing his failed WWE tryout in 2015, being brought back by William Regal and eventually being in the main event of TakeOver shows. Gargano says he doubts himself constantly, including right now, but the only place he's ever felt important is in NXT.
He continued by saying he's been in NXT because he loves it and believes in it. He called Hunter and Shawn his family and shouted out the likes of Matt Bloom, Steve Corino, Vic Joseph, the guys who do the video packages, and more.
"Change is scary, but sometimes it needs to happen," said Gargano. "You will never fail if you bet on yourself. I don't know what my immediate future holds. That's up in the air right now. I may do some things here and there, but I do know one thing is for sure; in February, I'm going to do the most important job of my life. I'm going to be a dad."
Gargano continued to talk about his son but was interrupted by Grayson Waller, who smashed a chair across Gargano's back, wrapped a chair around Gargano's neck and threw him into the steps, and then powerbombed him through a table.
We're already crying#WWENXT @JohnnyGargano pic.twitter.com/8NZZGpxj6y
— WWE (@WWE) December 8, 2021
"I know change is scary, but sometimes it needs to happen."#WWENXT @JohnnyGargano pic.twitter.com/jOnk6en8Ns
— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) December 8, 2021
WHAT. HAS. GRAYSON. WALLER. DONE?!?!#WWENXT @GraysonWWE @JohnnyGargano pic.twitter.com/2ijknxygUQ
— WWE (@WWE) December 8, 2021
Gargano's appearance at NXT WarGames was treated as his swan song with commentary and social media references to Gargano leaving the brand following the bout. Gargano's contract with WWE expired just ahead of NXT WarGames, but he signed a one-week extension to compete in the bout.
Keep up with everything happening on NXT with Fightful's coverage of the show. After the show, check out the post-show podcast for a full review of the action.
