In a move as unexpected as his iconic hip-thrust dance, AEW TNT Champion Daniel Garcia made a surprise return to the indie scene at West Coast Pro Wrestling’s Only The Strong Survive event. Proving once again why he’s the “Dragon Slayer” of professional wrestling, Garcia swooped in during a chaotic three-on-two beatdown, leveling the playing field for Titus Alexander and Starboy Charlie. Not content with just lending a helping hand, Garcia later joined the pair in a trios match to defeat Sinner & Saint (Judas Icarus and Travis Williams) alongside Alan Angels.
Naturally, the victory celebration featured Garcia’s signature dance—because no win is complete without a little hip-thrust action. One fan even captured the moves in all their glory on X, and the crowd went wild. When you’re Daniel Garcia, saving the day comes with style.
Back to His West Coast Roots
This wasn’t Garcia’s first rodeo at West Coast Pro Wrestling. Two years ago, he headlined From the West Coast with Love in a grueling 30-minute time-limit draw against Titus Alexander for the promotion’s Heavyweight Championship. His return not only rekindled that history but added another chapter to his indie legacy—because even as AEW TNT Champion, Garcia’s love for the indie scene burns bright.
A Champion’s 2024: From Questions to Gold
Daniel Garcia’s journey to becoming TNT Champion has been a whirlwind. After months of speculation about whether he’d re-sign with AEW or make a WWE jump, Garcia silenced the rumors in October, declaring his loyalty to AEW and his mission to become the “gold standard.” That mission reached a pinnacle at Full Gear 2024, where Garcia captured his first AEW title, defeating Jack Perry.
While his reign has already seen a successful defense against ROH legend Mark Briscoe, Garcia isn’t just resting on his laurels. He’s juggling championship responsibilities with the Continental Classic, where he earned a respectable seven points. But whether in AEW or the indies, Garcia is proving why he’s one of the brightest stars in wrestling today.