Johnny Gargano revealed that he and long-time tag team partner Tommaso Ciampa were rejected after their tryout in 2015, but continued to wrestle in "WWE NXT" despite not having a contract. He stated that he and Ciampa were wrestling in the indies and on "NXT" during this time. 

He believes the dedication and work ethic that he and Ciampa showcased had impressed Triple H. Gargano continued and praised "The Game" as well as current "NXT" supremo Shawn Michaels, calling them the smartest people he's met in the pro wrestling business.

"I think our work ethic and what we were able to do in the ring, really opened up a lot of eyes and it made Hunter even say, 'Wow these guys, these kids want it, they want it bad.' He respected that, he respected our grind, he respected our work ethic, and as you know, the years went on, that relationship blossomed and ... I say all the time how him and Shawn [Michaels] are two of the smartest people I've ever been around in wrestling, and I'm blessed, I'm really blessed to be able to work with them."

Gargano also discussed about Michaels as the creative head of "NXT," stating that "The Heartbreak Kid" produces a great show every week. He stated that he's a big fan of the show and watches it each week.