Back in 2021, before Bryan Danielson joined AEW, the company’s then-owner Vince McMahon made a final push to retain the “American Dragon’s services. Despite his WWE career being incredible, Bryan Danielson felt it was time to go in a different direction.
Bryan’s Storied WWE Career
The former WWE Champion was not always lucky in his early years with the company; however, his WWE experience eventually proved to be legendary. Bryan Danielson won several world titles and also featured in some of the most compelling storylines greenlighted by WWE over the last twenty years.
In addition to the names and plots, Bryan fought in multiple bouts that are still considered to be among the best witnessed in a WWE ring. One of, if not the most notable moments Danielson had as Daniel Bryan includes his “Yes” movement run in 2014, which led to his historic, feel-good WrestleMania XXX victory.
Why Bryan Danielson Chose AEW
Being one of the most prominent stars of WWE, Bryan Danielson had a desire to do more before he called it a career. He was drawn to AEW’s wrestling-focused approach rather than WWE’s entertainment-centered model. Even though he was proud of everything that he had accomplished in WWE, he wanted to test himself in other areas. However, that doesn’t mean Vince McMahon didn’t make a last attempt to retain him.
WWE made one final attempt to re-sign Bryan Danielson before he officially joined AEW. This was not the first time that he informed Vince McMahon of his exit. In early August, his decision had been final, and only a few days before All Out, McMahon contacted him once more with a new suggestion, throwing another undisclosed figure Danielson’s way. Bryan stood firm, explaining that he had already given his word. McMahon respected his honesty, admitting that he was right to honor his commitment.
AEW Debut and New Role
In keeping with his promise, Bryan Danielson made his debut at AEW All Out 2021 and recorded one of the loudest reactions in company history. Since then, he has been the AEW World Champion and has been giving classic matches until his semi-retirement. He is now a full-time commentator with AEW. Recently, he was added to the broadcast team, providing decades of knowledge.
While Bryan Danielson doesn’t regret his decision to leave WWE, he continues to speak highly of his time there and the respect he shares with Vince McMahon. His career serves as evidence that fulfilling a promise and pursuing a passion can make one successful over time, regardless of whatever path a person takes.
More From LWOS Pro Wrestling
Header photo – WWE – Stay tuned to the Last Word on Pro Wrestling for more on Bryan Danielson and other stories from around the world of wrestling, as they develop. You can always count on LWOPW to be on top of the major news in the wrestling world, as well as to provide you with analysis, previews, videos, interviews, and editorials on the wrestling world.
You can check out WWE programming on Netflix (Raw), USA Network (SmackDown), The CW (NXT), Tubi (WWE Evolve), A&E (WWE Superstar Sunday – Rivals, WWE LFG, and Greatest Moments), and Peacock (WWE Main Event as well as archives and premium live event streaming). Follow WWE on social media to relive top moments and matches on YouTube, and catch fast-paced action on X (WWE Speed).
More From LWOS Pro Wrestling
Header photo – WikiMedia Creative Commons – Stay tuned to the Last Word on Pro Wrestling for more on Bryan Danielson and other stories from around the world of wrestling, as they develop. You can always count on LWOPW to be on top of the major news in the wrestling world. As well as to provide you with analysis, previews, videos, interviews, and editorials on the wrestling world. You can catch AEW Dynamite on Wednesday nights at 8 PM ET on TBS. AEW Collision airs Saturday at 8 pm Eastern on TNT. More AEW content available on their YouTube
