Daniel Garcia: The American Professional Wrestler
Daniel Garcia is a name that resonates in the world of professional wrestling, representing a new generation of talents who combine refined technique with captivating charisma. Born on September 17, 1998, in Buffalo, New York, Garcia quickly rose as one of the most promising stars in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where he has captured significant titles and engaged in memorable rivalries. His journey is defined by perseverance, dedication, and constant evolution, from the independent circuit to major televised events. This article explores his life, career, and achievements, highlighting the moments that have made him an iconic figure in wrestling.
Early Life and Training
Daniel Garcia grew up in Buffalo, a city known for its harsh weather and passion for sports. From a young age, he showed an interest in physical activities, but professional wrestling captured his imagination. Inspired by idols like Bryan Danielson and Chris Jericho, Garcia began training at 18 under the guidance of Brandon Thurston and The Blade (known as Pepper Parks). These mentors helped him develop the technical foundation that would become central to his career.
While pursuing his wrestling dream, Garcia did not neglect his education. He graduated from Buffalo State College in 2020 with a degree in communications. This academic background helped him better understand the entertainment aspect of the industry, enabling him to connect more effectively with audiences. However, his journey was not without obstacles. In January 2019, Garcia suffered a severe car accident caused by black ice, resulting in fractures in both legs. Doctors predicted a long recovery, but with determination, he returned to the ring just six months later. This episode of resilience shaped his never-give-up attitude, reflected in his intense and relentless performances.
During his formative years, Garcia balanced rigorous training with regular jobs, such as working in local stores, to fund his passion. His family, initially concerned about the risks of wrestling, eventually supported him, recognizing his natural talent. These early years forged not only his physique but also his mindset, preparing him for the challenges of the professional wrestling circuit.
Independent Circuit Career
Garcia made his professional debut in 2017, competing in independent promotions across the United States. His technical style, influenced by Japanese and European wrestlers, immediately set him apart. He performed regularly for Limitless Wrestling, where he won the Limitless World Championship in 2021, marking his first major success. During this period, Garcia traveled across states, facing diverse opponents and honing his skills in small, packed venues.
Beyond Limitless, he appeared in other promotions, including sporadic appearances in WWE. In 2018, under the name Danny Garcia, he faced Drew Gulak on 205 Live, an experience that exposed him to the environment of a major promotion. In 2021, he competed in NXT against Tyler Rust, using the ring name Dante Rios. These opportunities, though brief, showcased his talent and helped him gain visibility.
On the independent circuit, Garcia built a reputation as a “pure technician,” capable of submitting opponents with precise holds and quick counters. He participated in tournaments and events that tested his endurance, such as weekend-long wrestling marathons. This phase was crucial for developing his persona, blending controlled arrogance with undeniable skill. By 2021, Garcia had amassed an impressive series of victories, setting the stage for bigger career leaps.
Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG)
In 2021, Garcia debuted in Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG), a California-based promotion renowned for attracting top independent talent. His arrival was impactful: in January 2022, he won the prestigious Battle of Los Angeles tournament, defeating a series of elite competitors in a grueling elimination format. This victory propelled him to rising-star status.
Just months later, in May 2022, Garcia captured the PWG World Championship by defeating Bandido in an epic match. He successfully defended the title against challengers like Konosuke Takeshita and Jonathan Gresham, showcasing versatility by adapting his technical style to faster or more powerful opponents. His title defenses were marked by high-intensity moments, with submission sequences that kept audiences on edge.
Unfortunately, PWG went on hiatus in August 2023, leaving Garcia’s championship status in limbo. Despite this, his time in the promotion solidified his reputation as one of the world’s best technical wrestlers. As of 2025, rumors suggest a possible PWG return, and Garcia has expressed interest in defending his legacy there if the opportunity arises.
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and Ring of Honor (ROH)
Early Days and Jericho Appreciation Society
Garcia debuted in AEW in September 2020 on Dark and signed officially in October 2021. Initially, he aligned with 2point0 (Matt Menard and Angelo Parker), forming a dynamic trio. In March 2022, they joined Chris Jericho and Jake Hager to form the Jericho Appreciation Society (JAS), a faction promoting “sports entertainment” over traditional wrestling.
During this period, Garcia was involved in a storyline with the Blackpool Combat Club, particularly Bryan Danielson. Despite temptations to switch sides, he remained loyal to Jericho. A highlight came in September 2022 when he won the ROH Pure Championship from Wheeler Yuta on Dynamite. He held the title for 94 days, defending it in matches emphasizing pure wrestling rules, before losing it back at Final Battle 2022.
The JAS gave Garcia opportunities to shine in group rivalries, including clashes with Eddie Kingston and the Anarchy in the Arena match. His provocative Latin dance became a signature taunt, generating mixed reactions from fans and adding depth to his persona.
Individual Competition and Recent Rivalries
After the JAS disbanded in 2023, Garcia continued with Menard and Parker, unsuccessfully challenging for the AEW World Trios Championship. He faced MJF for the AEW World Championship in November 2023 in an intense match that showcased his tenacity, though he lost.
In 2023, he competed in the Continental Classic tournament, earning points with notable victories, such as against Brody King. In early 2024, he allied with FTR in a feud against the House of Black, winning singles matches and participating in an Elimination Cage match. He pursued the TNT Championship, facing Christian Cage at Revolution 2024, but fell short.
A scripted injury in July 2024 sidelined him briefly, but he returned at All In 2024, interfering in Will Ospreay’s match against MJF, costing MJF the title. This sparked a feud culminating at All Out 2024, where Garcia lost but attacked MJF post-match. In October 2024, he renewed his AEW contract.
The pinnacle came in November 2024 at Full Gear, when he defeated Jack Perry to win the AEW TNT Championship, his first AEW title. He defended the belt against Mark Briscoe and Katsuyori Shibata, holding it for 134 days until losing to Adam Cole at Dynasty in April 2025.
Post-loss, Garcia entered a feud with FTR, teaming with Nigel McGuinness in a loss at Double or Nothing in May 2025. At All In in July 2025, he competed in a four-way match for the vacant TNT Championship but didn’t win. As of August 2025, Garcia has focused on singles matches, showing ambition for bigger titles.
Wrestling Style and Persona
Garcia is renowned for his technical wrestling style, emphasizing submissions and counters. His finisher, the Dragon Tamer (a bridged Sharpshooter), pays homage to iconic victories, like his 2022 win over Bryan Danielson. After joining the JAS, he adopted the “sports entertainer” label, rejecting the term “professional wrestler” and incorporating a provocative dance to rile up opponents and fans.
His persona evolved from an arrogant heel to a resilient face, blending technique with entertainment. In interviews, Garcia emphasizes the importance of storytelling in the ring, drawing inspiration from legends like Jericho.
Achievements and Titles
Garcia’s accolades include:
- AEW TNT Championship (1 time, 2024–2025)
- ROH Pure Championship (1 time, 2022)
- PWG World Championship (1 time, 2022–present, on hiatus)
- Limitless World Championship (1 time, 2021)
- Battle of Los Angeles winner (2022)
He was also ranked among the top 30 wrestlers under 30 by ESPN in 2024, climbing the ranks due to his consistent performances.
Personal Life
Outside the ring, Garcia maintains a low-profile life. He is single and focuses on training and travel. His 2019 accident made him an advocate for road safety. In 2025 interviews, he shared career goals, aiming to become a world champion by age 31. Garcia also engages in community work in Buffalo, inspiring young athletes.
Legacy and Future
At 26, Daniel Garcia has already left an indelible mark on professional wrestling. His journey of overcoming adversity, combined with technical prowess, positions him as a future cornerstone of AEW. In 2025, with plans for more rivalries and titles, Garcia continues to evolve, promising years of thrilling entertainment. His legacy is that of a wrestler who turns challenges into triumphs, inspiring a new generation.
