Daniel Garcia hasn’t been featured on AEW shows recently due to a storyline involving MJF violently attacking him on Dynamite. This incident transpired after Garcia lost to Will Ospreay in a match for the AEW International Championship, where Garcia turned heel.
During a recent episode of Matt Hardy’s podcast, “The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy”, Hardy discussed the circumstances of Garcia’s departure from AEW TV. His contract, reportedly, is set to expire this year.
Below are some key points from the podcast episode:
When asked about Daniel Garcia and the reasons for his limitations in AEW, Hardy said, “Daniel Garcia is a commendable individual and proficient performer. After the major dispute with MJF, they were essentially laying the groundwork for Garcia’s future. They expressed their desire to build around him and provide an opportunity to turn him into a top player. It’s reminiscent of how they hinted at a future arc with me and Randy Orton after Raw, only to have Orton finish me off. But whatever path Garcia chooses, I believe he will find success, whether it’s in AEW or WWE. However, he’s quite young, and if I were in his shoes, I would seek a comprehensive plan from Tony Khan, MJF or anyone else who might shed light on what their intentions are for his future.”
On the potential of him following a similar trajectory to Ethan Page in NXT if he shifted to WWE, Hardy stated, “Certainly, he would ascend to the main roster in time, just like Ethan will inevitably do. I see him being highlighted and becoming a pivotal character. This could open up the possibility of being the face of the company, which would be great exposure for any talent. Like when I was the ECW Champion, despite the naysayers online criticizing the promotion, being in the position to be the face of the company, to carry its weight and have the promoters trust in you —that’s a momentous experience. I believe Daniel Garcia could have a similar trajectory in NXT.”
[Embedded video: Shane McMahon to AEW? | The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy #135]