Bryan Danielson
Bryan Danielson is an American semi-retired professional wrestler, widely regarded as one of the greatest technical wrestlers of all time due to his exceptional in-ring ability, resilience, and influence on the industry.[1] Born Bryan Lloyd Danielson on May 22, 1981, in Aberdeen, Washington, he stands at 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs 210 pounds, having debuted in professional wrestling on October 4, 1999, after training under mentors including Shawn Michaels and William Regal.[1][2][3] His career spans the independent circuit, Ring of Honor (ROH), World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), and All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where he has captured numerous world championships and overcome significant health challenges, including a forced retirement in 2016 due to multiple concussions and neck injuries.[1][4] Danielson's early career was defined by his work on the independent scene and in Japan, where he earned the moniker "The American Dragon" for his hard-hitting, submission-based style inspired by strong-style wrestling.[1] He became a founding member of ROH in 2002, winning the ROH World Championship in 2005 and establishing himself as a top draw through intense matches against talents like CM Punk and Homicide.[1][3] In WWE from 2009 to 2021, performing primarily as Daniel Bryan, he achieved mainstream fame despite initial undercard positioning, culminating in a historic WWE Championship victory at WrestleMania 30 in 2014 amid the fan-driven "Yes! Movement" that highlighted his underdog appeal.[1][2] He secured the WWE Championship three times and the World Heavyweight Championship once, before retiring in 2016 following a brain lesion diagnosis from accumulated concussions; he returned in 2018 after medical clearance and added further accolades, including the Intercontinental Championship.[1][2][3] Joining AEW in 2021 under his real name, Danielson quickly rose to prominence, winning the AEW World Championship at All In 2024 in a critically acclaimed match against Swerve Strickland, only to lose it at WrestleDream later that year to Jon Moxley.[1][5] This marked the end of his full-time in-ring career, as he transitioned to part-time appearances and roles such as commentator, citing ongoing neck issues and a desire to prioritize family— he is married to former WWE wrestler Brie Bella since 2014, with whom he has two children.[6][4][3] As of November 2025, Danielson remains signed to AEW on a part-time basis, occasionally absent from events due to family commitments or recovery, while reflecting contentedly on a legacy that includes 14 major championship reigns and induction into multiple halls of fame for his contributions to wrestling's evolution.[7][8][3]Early life
Childhood and family background
Bryan Danielson was born Bryan Lloyd Danielson on May 22, 1981, in Aberdeen, Washington, to Darlene Jean Danielson, a therapist, and Donald Orrin "Buddy" Danielson, a lumberjack and later log scaler.[9][10] His parents divorced when he was young, after which his father remained actively involved in his life despite the separation.[11] Danielson grew up alongside his older sister, Billie Sue, with whom he shared a close bond, often following her around as a child; he also had additional siblings including half-brother Jason Brown and half-sisters Jeri Ann Nagala and Kelly Marlene Sutera.[10] His mother provided a nurturing environment amid the family's challenges, fostering a strong familial connection that influenced his early years.[9] Raised in the working-class logging community of Aberdeen, a small Pacific Northwest town known for its timber industry and modest economic conditions, Danielson experienced a straightforward, unassuming childhood marked by shyness and limited social interactions.[1][12] The family's circumstances reflected the blue-collar ethos of the area, where his father's occupation in the logging sector shaped their lifestyle and frequent relocations before settling back in Aberdeen.[3] As a quiet and stubborn child, Danielson often spent time alone, developing an independent streak that later defined his personal resilience; he also struggled with a stutter until around age 12, which affected his confidence in social settings.[13] Danielson's early interests were sparked by professional wrestling, beginning when a friend showed him a wrestling magazine during childhood, igniting a lifelong passion for the sport and particularly World Wrestling Federation (WWF) events.[1][14] This exposure inspired him to follow matches avidly, laying the groundwork for his future pursuits while he navigated the formative experiences of growing up in Aberdeen's tight-knit, resource-limited community.[11]Education and initial training
Bryan Danielson attended Aberdeen High School in Aberdeen, Washington, where he graduated in 1999.[15] During his time there, he participated in football, basketball, and amateur wrestling, though he later noted that he only completed one year of wrestling and was not particularly skilled at it.[16][17] His early exposure to wrestling came through magazines shared by a school friend, sparking a deep interest that led him to engage in backyard wrestling during his high school years.[15] At age 18, Danielson made the decision to pursue professional wrestling full-time, moving to San Antonio, Texas, immediately after graduation to enroll at the Texas Wrestling Academy.[1] There, he trained under Shawn Michaels and Rudy Boy Gonzalez, marking the start of his formal preparation for a career in the ring.[1] His family provided encouragement for this ambitious path despite the challenges of leaving home so young.[18]Professional wrestling career
Early career and first WWE stint (1999–2003)
Bryan Danielson began his professional wrestling career on the independent circuit after training at the Texas Wrestling Academy under instructors including Shawn Michaels and Rudy Gonzalez. He made his in-ring debut on October 4, 1999, quickly earning bookings in promotions such as All Pro Wrestling (APW) and Ultimate Pro Wrestling (UPW), where he honed his technical grappling style against regional talent.[1][19] In 2001, Danielson achieved an early career highlight by winning APW's King of the Indies tournament, defeating Low Ki in the final on October 27 in Vallejo, California, which solidified his reputation among independent wrestlers.[19] In 2000, he ventured internationally, touring Japan with Frontier Martial-Arts Wrestling (FMW) to gain exposure to hardcore and strong-style elements that influenced his versatile approach.[1] In September 2000, Danielson signed an 18-month developmental contract with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, later WWE), the first major promotion to recruit him, and was assigned to its Memphis Championship Wrestling (MCW) territory. Adopting the ring name "American Dragon," he trained under William Regal and competed primarily in the light heavyweight division, capturing the MCW Southern Light Heavyweight Championship and the MCW Southern Tag Team Championship alongside Brian Kendrick.[20][1] His tenure emphasized mat-based wrestling and submissions, though limited television exposure kept him in developmental until MCW folded in July 2001, leading to his release from the organization.[20] Following his departure, Danielson continued building his profile on the independents, including tours in Europe and a stint with New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) in 2002, where he participated in junior heavyweight matches that showcased his endurance and adaptability.[19] He rejoined WWE on a short-term developmental basis in late 2002, debuting on the January 12, 2003, episode of Velocity as enhancement talent in the cruiserweight division. Notable bouts included a technical showcase against Jamie Noble on Velocity, highlighting Danielson's superior grappling, and a loss to Rico on the February 9, 2003, episode of Heat.[20][21][22] These non-contracted appearances totaled four matches across WWE's secondary programming, but he was released later in 2003 after failing to secure a full roster spot, returning his focus to the burgeoning independent scene.[20]Independent circuit and ROH rise (2002–2009)
In 2002, Bryan Danielson made his debut for the newly formed Ring of Honor (ROH) promotion at its inaugural event, "The Era of Honor Begins," on February 23 in Philadelphia, where he competed in the main event against Low Ki.[23] As one of the promotion's earliest and most consistent performers, Danielson quickly established himself as a cornerstone talent, earning recognition as one of ROH's "Founding Fathers" for his role in shaping its early identity through high-profile matches that emphasized technical wrestling and intense storytelling.[1] Parallel to his ROH commitments, Danielson toured Japan with New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) from 2002 to 2004, including participation in the Best of the Super Juniors tournaments in 2002 (finishing mid-block) and 2004 (reaching the semi-finals), solidifying his reputation as a global technician.[24] These excursions honed his submission-based style and exposed him to international audiences, contributing to his growing acclaim on the independent circuit. Danielson also emerged as a key figure in Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG) starting in 2004, participating in standout matches that highlighted his versatility, including a critically acclaimed bout against James Gibson on April 1, 2005, which showcased his ability to blend mat wrestling with high-stakes drama.[25] His early PWG appearances helped elevate the promotion's profile during its formative years, positioning him as a draw amid a roster of innovative indie stars. By 2005, Danielson's prominence in ROH intensified through major rivalries that defined the promotion's golden era. He engaged in a heated feud with Homicide, culminating in a best-of-five series that spanned February to May, with matches escalating from standard bouts to a steel cage finale at "The Final Showdown" on May 13, where Danielson emerged victorious in the decisive fifth encounter.[26] Later that year, tensions with CM Punk peaked during Punk's final ROH appearances, including a singles match on February 12 that underscored their contrasting styles—Danielson's precision grappling against Punk's brawling aggression—as Punk prepared to depart for WWE.[27] Danielson's ascent reached its zenith on September 17, 2005, at "Glory by Honor IV," when he defeated James Gibson (Jamie Knoble) to capture the ROH World Championship, beginning a historic 462-day reign marked by rigorous defenses that affirmed his status as the promotion's top technician.[28] Notable title matches included submissions over Austin Aries on October 14, 2005, in Cleveland, and a grueling 30-minute classic against KENTA on September 16, 2006, at "Glory by Honor V: Night 2," where Danielson retained via cattle mutilation after trading strikes and suplexes.[29][30] He further unified the ROH World Championship with the Pure Championship by defeating Nigel McGuinness on August 12, 2006, at "Unified," igniting a protracted rivalry that spanned 2006 to 2009 and produced ten acclaimed encounters, including a 45-minute draw at "Final Battle 2008" on December 27.[31] This feud, characterized by McGuinness's lariat-heavy offense clashing with Danielson's armbar submissions, became a hallmark of ROH's emphasis on endurance and skill.[32] During his ROH title run, Danielson expanded his indie footprint by winning the PWG World Championship on July 29, 2007, at "Giant-Size Annual #4," defeating Chris Hero in his final appearance before a WWE signing, though he vacated the belt after 160 days without a defense.[33] His ROH tenure concluded amid ongoing excellence, but in June 2009, a staph bacterial infection sidelined him briefly, forcing him to miss a TV taping and creating a hiatus that coincided with heightened WWE interest in his talents.[34]Brief WWE return and independent resurgence (2009–2010)
In August 2009, Bryan Danielson signed a developmental contract with WWE, marking his return to the company after a brief and unsuccessful stint from 2000 to 2001. Assigned to Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW), WWE's developmental brand, he adopted the ring name Daniel Bryan and quickly established himself as a top performer.[35] His television debut occurred on the premiere episode of WWE NXT on February 23, 2010, where he was introduced as a rookie contestant mentored by The Miz, leading to an immediate feud characterized by Bryan's technical submissions clashing with Miz's Hollywood persona.[36] The NXT season showcased Bryan's technical prowess, including standout performances against opponents like Chris Jericho and William Regal, but it ended with his elimination in the fourth week amid growing fan support.[37] Despite this, Bryan transitioned to the ECW brand and continued his rivalry with Miz, culminating in a United States Championship match at Night of Champions on September 19, 2010, where he defeated Miz to claim his first WWE title in a hard-fought submission victory.[38] The reign was short-lived, as Bryan dropped the title to Ted DiBiase on October 24, 2010, at Bragging Rights following interference, though he had earlier defended it successfully against challengers like Rey Mysterio in non-title bouts on Raw, highlighting his resilience amid a brief but intense push on the main roster.[39] Bryan's WWE tenure was abruptly halted on June 11, 2010, when he was released following the Nexus storyline debut on Raw, where his character choked ring announcer Justin Roberts with his tie, drawing sponsor complaints for violating PG-era guidelines; reports also cited underlying contract disputes and a failed wellness policy test as contributing factors.[40][41] Undeterred, Bryan immediately resumed his independent career on June 26, 2010, defeating Eddie Kingston in a well-received match at CHIKARA's "The World Is Not Enough: We Must Eat Michigan's Brain" event in Taylor, Michigan, signaling his intent to reclaim momentum outside WWE.[42] Over the summer, Bryan toured Japan with Pro Wrestling Noah, competing in high-profile matches against talents like KENTA and Go Shiozaki, which showcased his international appeal and technical style to enthusiastic crowds.[43] Upon the expiration of his 90-day no-compete clause, he returned to Ring of Honor (ROH) at Glory by Honor IX on September 11, 2010, submitting Austin Aries in the main event to win the ROH World Championship, leveraging his prior success in the promotion as a key negotiation point for future opportunities.[44] Additional appearances, such as his September 25, 2010, victory over Claudio Castagnoli at Dragon Gate USA's "Freedom Fight," further demonstrated his resurgence, drawing praise for elevating the indie scene and positioning him for a WWE re-signing later that month.[45]WWE main event era (2010–2015)
Daniel Bryan made his return to WWE at SummerSlam on August 15, 2010, as the surprise seventh member of Team WWE, selected by John Cena to battle The Nexus in an elimination tag team match, where Team WWE emerged victorious.[46] This appearance marked his re-debut as a fan favorite, capitalizing on his technical prowess and underdog appeal honed during his independent circuit tenure. Shortly thereafter, Bryan entered a heated feud with The Miz, stemming from their WWE NXT rivalry, which escalated when Bryan was chosen over Miz for the SummerSlam spot.[47] The feud culminated at Night of Champions on September 19, 2010, where Bryan defeated The Miz to capture the United States Championship, his first singles title in WWE.[38] His 149-day reign saw successful defenses against challengers including Ted DiBiase at Survivor Series and Dolph Ziggler at Bragging Rights, showcasing his submission expertise with the LeBell Lock.[48] The title run ended on February 15, 2011, when Sheamus defeated him on SmackDown, but it solidified Bryan's position as a midcard mainstay transitioning toward main event contention.[1] Bryan's ascent continued as he won the World Heavyweight Championship at TLC on December 18, 2011, by cashing in his Money in the Bank contract on Mark Henry immediately after Henry's chairs match victory over Big Show.[49] This opportunistic triumph initiated a 105-day reign defined by defenses against top competitors like Big Show and Alberto Del Rio, emphasizing his resilience amid personal storylines involving AJ Lee.[50] The championship era peaked and abruptly concluded at WrestleMania XXVIII on April 1, 2012, when Sheamus defeated him in an 18-second match, influenced by a storyline betrayal kiss from AJ Lee.[51] In September 2012, Bryan formed an unlikely tag team with Kane, dubbed Team Hell No after a fan-voted RAW Active poll, to address their anger management issues in a comedic yet effective storyline.[52] The duo captured the WWE Tag Team Championship from Kofi Kingston and R-Truth at Night of Champions on September 16, 2012, embarking on a 245-day reign that included victories over The Shield and Rhodes Scholars.[53] Their partnership earned multiple accolades, including the Slammy Award for Tag Team of the Year at the 2012 ceremony, highlighting their chemistry and contributions to WWE's tag division.[54] The reign ended at Extreme Rules on May 19, 2013, in a two-out-of-three falls match against Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns of The Shield.[1] The Yes! Movement gained momentum in late 2013, fueled by fan chants and organic support protesting WWE's booking decisions that sidelined Bryan from main event spots despite his popularity.[35] This grassroots campaign intensified through 2013 and 2014, with Bryan defeating John Cena for the WWE Championship at SummerSlam 2013, only for Randy Orton to cash in Money in the Bank later that night.[55] The movement's pressure led to Bryan earning a WrestleMania XXX main event slot after defeating Triple H on April 6, 2014; he then overcame Batista and Orton in the main event to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, unifying the titles amid explosive "Yes!" celebrations.[56] In 2015, amid ongoing authority angles with Triple H and Stephanie McMahon that amplified fan backing, Bryan targeted the Intercontinental Championship to reclaim momentum.[57] He won the title in a ladder match at WrestleMania 31 on March 29, 2015, defeating Bad News Barrett, Dean Ambrose, Dolph Ziggler, Luke Harper, R-Truth, and Stardust.[58] The victory, his fourth world title in WWE, underscored the enduring Yes! fervor as fans rallied against corporate interference, though his reign was brief at 67 days before health concerns arose.[59]WWE injuries, retirement, and comeback (2015–2021)
In early 2015, Daniel Bryan defended the Intercontinental Championship in a ladder match at WrestleMania 31 against Dean Ambrose, Bad News Barrett, Dolph Ziggler, Luke Harper, R-Truth, and Stardust (with Barrett as defending champion), but the bout exacerbated his ongoing neck issues stemming from prior surgeries and concussions sustained throughout his career.[60] These injuries, including a brain lesion identified through medical evaluations, forced him to vacate the Intercontinental Championship on the May 11 episode of Raw, marking his withdrawal from competition amid concerns over long-term health risks.[61] Despite attempts to manage symptoms, repeated concussions led to a formal retirement announcement on February 8, 2016, during an emotional Raw segment where Bryan addressed the WWE Universe, expressing gratitude for his career while citing the Yes! Movement's support as a pivotal force in his journey.[62][63] Following his retirement, Bryan transitioned to an on-screen authority role as the General Manager of SmackDown Live starting in July 2016, where he oversaw storylines, sanctioned matches, and mediated conflicts alongside Commissioner Shane McMahon, including booking key events like the Six-Pack Elimination Challenge for the inaugural SmackDown Women's Championship.[64] His tenure involved non-physical participation, such as hosting forums and announcing team rosters for Survivor Series, allowing him to remain integral to WWE programming without risking further injury.[65] This period lasted until April 2018, during which Bryan co-hosted the post-SmackDown interview series Talking Smack, providing backstage insights while advocating for wellness initiatives tied to his personal health experiences.[66] After extensive medical clearance in March 2018, Bryan returned to in-ring competition at WrestleMania 34 on April 8, teaming with Shane McMahon to defeat Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn in a tag team match that electrified the MetLife Stadium crowd and symbolized his triumphant comeback after over two years away.[67] Later that year, Bryan adopted the "The New" Daniel Bryan persona, evolving into an eco-conscious heel character who criticized corporate excess and aligned with Rowan as his enforcer, culminating in a betrayal of AJ Styles on the November 13 episode of SmackDown to win the WWE Championship.[68][69] This heel turn sparked a heated feud with Styles, including a WWE Championship defense at Crown Jewel in October 2018, where Bryan retained via disqualification after interference, and a rematch at TLC in December that reinforced his dominant, environmentally themed reign.[70] As WWE Champion, Bryan pursued the Universal Championship in a Champion vs. Champion clash against Brock Lesnar at Survivor Series 2018, losing via submission but showcasing his resilience in the non-title encounter that highlighted inter-brand tensions.[71] His title defenses continued through early 2019, blending technical mastery with his heel persona's disdain for mainstream heroes, until WrestleMania 35 on April 7, where he lost the WWE Championship to Kofi Kingston in a main event match that ended his 116-day reign and elevated Kingston's underdog story.[72] In the subsequent years, Bryan's WWE run shifted toward the SmackDown and Raw brands, where he engaged in various feuds, including alliances and rivalries that tested his veteran status, leading into 2021's Universal Championship pursuits against Roman Reigns. Following a WrestleMania 37 triple threat loss to Reigns and Edge in April 2021, Bryan invoked a rematch stipulation for the Universal Title on the April 30 episode of SmackDown, but Reigns defeated him decisively, marking Bryan's final WWE match as his contract expired immediately afterward, rendering him a free agent.[73][74] This conclusion to his WWE tenure, spanning recovery from severe injuries to a second world title run, underscored his enduring impact despite health setbacks.AEW debut and championship pursuits (2021–2023)
Following his departure from WWE, Bryan Danielson signed a full-time contract with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in early September 2021, just days before the All Out pay-per-view event.[75] He made his AEW in-ring debut on September 22, 2021, at Dynamite: Grand Slam in Arthur Ashe Stadium, facing AEW World Champion Kenny Omega in a 30-minute time-limit match that ended in a draw after Danielson forced a near-submission just as the bell rang.[76] The bout, praised for its technical intensity and athleticism, immediately positioned Danielson as a top contender in the promotion.[77] Danielson's pursuit of the AEW World Championship began shortly after, highlighted by a trilogy of matches against "Hangman" Adam Page. Their first encounter on December 15, 2021, at Dynamite: Winter Is Coming saw Page defend the title in a 60-minute iron man match that ended in a draw, with neither wrestler scoring a fall within regulation time.[78] The rematch on January 5, 2022, at Dynamite: New Year's Smash resulted in Page retaining via pinfall after a grueling 28-minute battle marked by bloody exchanges and high-impact maneuvers. The series concluded on September 7, 2022, at Dynamite, where Page again defeated Danielson in a 25-minute technical showcase, solidifying Page's reign while showcasing Danielson's resilience and submission expertise.[79] These matches emphasized Danielson's adaptation to AEW's hard-hitting style, blending his mat-based grappling with Page's brawling power. Throughout 2021 and 2022, Danielson engaged in several high-profile feuds that highlighted his technical prowess. In October 2021, he renewed a rivalry with Bobby Fish, defeating him on the October 16 episode of Dynamite in a 15-minute submission-heavy contest that revisited their independent circuit history. Early 2023 saw a brief but intense feud with Brian Cage, culminating in Danielson's victory on the January 25 episode of Dynamite, where he overcame Cage's power-based offense with targeted leg work and a LeBell Lock submission after 12 minutes. His ongoing rivalry with Hangman Page provided multiple technical showcases, including non-title bouts that tested endurance and precision, such as a February 2022 strap match where Danielson touched all four corners first despite interference. As part of the Blackpool Combat Club stable formed in 2022 with allies like Jon Moxley and Claudio Castagnoli, Danielson contributed to group dynamics that amplified his championship ambitions, though he did not secure a Trios title in that period. His efforts built toward major 2023 opportunities, including a high-stakes 60-minute iron man match against Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF) for the AEW World Championship at Revolution on March 5, 2023. In the bout, MJF retained after winning sudden-death overtime 1-0, following a series of five falls tied at regulation's end, capping Danielson's persistent but ultimately unsuccessful pursuit.Blackpool Combat Club and final matches (2023–2024)
In 2023, the Blackpool Combat Club, consisting of Bryan Danielson, Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, and Wheeler Yuta, engaged in a high-stakes faction war with The Elite, culminating in the Blood & Guts match on July 19. Although Danielson was sidelined by a forearm injury sustained earlier in the year, the BCC team—including Moxley, Castagnoli, Yuta, and allies Eddie Kingston and PAC—faced off against The Elite's Hangman Page, Kenny Omega, Matt Jackson, Nick Jackson, and Kota Ibushi in a brutal steel cage elimination bout. The Golden Elite emerged victorious when Moxley surrendered to protect Yuta from further punishment, intensifying the group's resolve for retribution. Danielson's return later that year highlighted his central role in the BCC's technical and mentoring ethos, particularly in guiding Yuta's development as a versatile grappler. He participated in the inaugural Continental Classic tournament in November and December, competing in the Blue League against top contenders like Eddie Kingston, Claudio Castagnoli, Brody King, Daniel Garcia, and Jay Lethal. Danielson advanced through the round-robin format with key victories, including submissions over Garcia and pinfalls against Lethal and Rush, ultimately defeating Kingston in the league final on December 27 to become the first AEW Continental Champion. This triumph underscored the BCC's emphasis on pure wrestling prowess and group loyalty, as Danielson defended the title in multi-man defenses alongside his stablemates. Transitioning into 2024, the BCC continued to assert dominance through collective defenses and internal training regimens, with Danielson serving as a veteran mentor to Yuta, who credited the group's rigorous sessions for honing his submission skills and resilience. The faction's unity faced strains during Danielson's pursuit of the AEW World Championship, which he captured on August 25 at All In London in a career-vs.-title match against Swerve Strickland. In a 28-minute epic at Wembley Stadium, Danielson overcame Strickland's high-flying offense with precise strikes and a LeBell Lock submission, securing his first world title in AEW and fulfilling a long-teased ambition.[80] His brief reign, lasting until October, featured defenses that reinforced BCC themes of combat excellence, including a hard-fought win over Jack Perry on September 7 at All Out.[81] However, the championship victory exposed fractures within the BCC, leading to a dramatic implosion at All Out when Moxley, Castagnoli, and Yuta turned on Danielson post-match, attacking him in a show of shifting allegiances. Moxley, citing a need for the group to evolve beyond Danielson's influence, orchestrated the betrayal, with Yuta—despite his prior mentorship under Danielson—joining in, marking the end of their tutor-protégé dynamic.[82] This internal conflict built to Danielson's final full-time match on October 12 at WrestleDream, where he defended the AEW World Championship against Moxley in Seattle. In a 30-minute war of attrition filled with barbed-wire elements and brutal exchanges, Moxley forced a submission via sleeper hold after Danielson was left bloodied and unable to continue, reclaiming the title and symbolizing the BCC's reconfiguration without its founding pillar. The loss signaled Danielson's retirement from regular competition, closing a chapter defined by the BCC's violent camaraderie and his unparalleled in-ring legacy.[83]International excursions (2023–2025)
In 2023, Bryan Danielson made his return to New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) through a high-profile singles match against Kazuchika Okada at AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door on June 25 in Toronto, Canada, where Danielson emerged victorious via submission with his signature LeBell Lock after 27 minutes of intense technical grappling. This bout, billed as a dream match between two of the world's premier technicians, highlighted Danielson's adaptability to NJPW's strong-style elements while complementing his AEW commitments by allowing cross-promotional storytelling without disrupting his Blackpool Combat Club (BCC) obligations. The victory positioned Danielson as a credible threat in the NJPW landscape, showcasing his versatility in blending submission-based offense with striking exchanges against Okada's Rainmaker arsenal. Danielson's NJPW excursions intensified in 2024, beginning with a loss to Okada via Rainmaker at Wrestle Kingdom 18 on January 4 in Tokyo Dome, Japan, in a 23-minute contest praised for its hard-hitting pace and mutual respect despite the rematch outcome. This appearance, his first in the Tokyo Dome since 2015, underscored his enduring draw in Japan and served as a bridge between AEW's winter schedule and NJPW's new year events, allowing him to test his limits post-injury recovery. Later that month, on February 11 at The New Beginning in Osaka, Danielson fell to Zack Sabre Jr. in a 32-minute technical masterpiece, submitting to Sabre's complex armbar variations after a clinic in limb work that emphasized Danielson's resilience amid ongoing neck concerns. These matches, spaced to align with AEW's lighter early-year touring, demonstrated Danielson's global appeal and ability to elevate international talent, with the BCC's rigorous training regimen aiding his quick adjustment to varied ring sizes and crowd dynamics. On June 30, 2024, Danielson capped his NJPW run for the year by defeating Shingo Takagi at Forbidden Door in Elmont, New York, securing a pinfall with a Busaiku Knee after 20 minutes of power-based clashes that contrasted his usual mat-focused style. This win, against one of NJPW's heaviest hitters, reinforced Danielson's versatility across strong-style and hybrid formats, fitting seamlessly into AEW's summer pay-per-view calendar without requiring extended travel. Shifting to Mexico, Danielson ventured into Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL) in March 2024, debuting in an eight-man tag team match at Homenaje a Dos Leyendas on March 29 in Arena México, where he teamed with Claudio Castagnoli, Jon Moxley, and Matt Sydal but lost to Blue Panther, Místico, Último Guerrero, and Volador Jr. following a chaotic 16-minute affair marked by high-flying dives and submission attempts. The following week, on April 5 at Viernes Espectacular, Danielson achieved a personal milestone by defeating Blue Panther in a 25-minute singles dream match via LeBell Lock, blending his technical precision with lucha libre's aerial and rapid pacing to earn widespread acclaim for cultural fusion. These CMLL outings, coordinated around AEW's spring events, allowed Danielson to explore faster, rule-light wrestling traditions, enhancing his in-ring lexicon and providing BCC members with exposure to international alliances. In 2025, Danielson's CMLL involvement continued through non-wrestling appearances that maintained his presence in Mexico's lucha scene, including a surprise intervention at ROH x CMLL Global Wars on June 26 in Arena México, where he aided Blue Panther against Shane Taylor Promotions, blending BCC loyalty with lucha camaraderie without entering the ring.[84] Additional sightings at Arena México events throughout the year, such as press gatherings and fan interactions, further showcased his appreciation for CMLL's high-energy atmosphere, complementing his reduced AEW schedule by fostering ongoing cross-cultural ties and highlighting his evolution toward mentorship roles.[85] Overall, these excursions from 2023 to 2025 exemplified Danielson's commitment to global wrestling, using targeted trips to refine his style against diverse opponents while prioritizing recovery and family amid AEW's demands.Retirement and post-wrestling role (2024–present)
Bryan Danielson officially retired from full-time in-ring competition following his loss to Jon Moxley for the AEW World Championship at AEW WrestleDream on October 12, 2024, marking the end of his 49-day title reign as a capstone to his career. He cited ongoing neck injuries from years of high-impact wrestling, including multiple concussions and cervical damage, as a primary factor, emphasizing the need to avoid further health risks. Additionally, Danielson highlighted family priorities, stating his desire to spend more time with his wife Brie Bella and their two children without the demands of a full schedule.[5][86] Post-retirement, Danielson transitioned to sporadic appearances for All Elite Wrestling (AEW), focusing on non-competitive involvement while maintaining his connection to the promotion. At AEW All In: Texas in July 2025, he made a surprise return to the ring for a brief segment, addressing fans directly about his in-ring status and clarifying that no full comeback was planned, though some limited moves had been medically cleared while others remained restricted due to his physical condition. These limited engagements, including off-air segments and independent show cameos, allowed him to engage with audiences without resuming regular matches.[85][87] On September 6, 2025, AEW President Tony Khan announced that Danielson would join the commentary team for the flagship program Dynamite on a full-time basis as color commentator, a role he had tested successfully in prior broadcasts. This position enables him to contribute weekly insights into matches and storylines, drawing on his extensive experience, while avoiding physical strain. Khan praised Danielson's analytical skills and fan appeal as key to enhancing the show's production value.[88][89][90] In his new role, Danielson has taken on backstage mentorship duties, particularly within the Blackpool Combat Club (BCC), where he continues to guide younger talents like Wheeler Yuta on technical and strategic aspects of wrestling. He also provides creative input to AEW's booking team, helping shape narratives and match structures based on his veteran perspective. In interviews, Danielson has expressed deep satisfaction with this phase, noting it allows him to remain influential in the industry while prioritizing recovery and personal life.[89][91][86] Amid speculation about a potential WWE return, Danielson firmly denied any interest in 2025, stating his body no longer meets the rigorous in-ring demands of major promotions and that he has no desire to leave AEW's environment. He emphasized fulfillment through non-wrestling contributions, such as commentary and mentorship, as aligning better with his current health and family goals.[92][93]Professional wrestling style and persona
In-ring style and technical prowess
Bryan Danielson's in-ring style is fundamentally grounded in catch wrestling and shoot-style techniques, drawing from rigorous grappling training that emphasizes realistic submissions and ground-based control. He began incorporating catch wrestling elements after training under Judo Gene LeBell, whose lineage traces back to pioneer Ed "Strangler" Lewis, allowing Danielson to blend legitimate holds with professional wrestling dynamics.[94][95] This foundation was further shaped by key influences including Dean Malenko's precise technical execution, William Regal's submission expertise, and Mitsuharu Misawa's intense shoot-style pacing, which informed Danielson's focus on mat work and transitional chain wrestling.[96] Central to his arsenal are signature maneuvers like the LeBell Lock, a bridging arm-trapped crossface submission that targets the neck and arm; the Busaiku Knee, a devastating running knee strike to the chest; and the diving headbutt, a high-risk aerial drop from the top rope. These moves underscore his emphasis on submissions and ground grappling, where he often transitions seamlessly from strikes to joint locks, wearing down opponents through sustained pressure rather than power-based offense.[97][98][99] Danielson exhibited remarkable adaptability, tailoring his approach to diverse promotions and match types: incorporating stiff strong-style kicks and forearms during New Japan Pro-Wrestling excursions, agile high-flying sequences like enzui-lari and missile dropkicks in his WWE cruiserweight division tenure, and brutal hardcore weapons in Ring of Honor's extreme rules contests.[100][101] This versatility stemmed from his ability to absorb and integrate stylistic elements without losing his technical core, as seen in his evolution from indie purist to mainstream performer.[102] His reputation extends to masterful selling of injuries, portraying physical tolls with lifelike vulnerability that heightens match drama, such as limping through targeted limb damage or convulsing from head trauma. Danielson also excels at pacing bouts for narrative depth, methodically building tension through deliberate slowdowns and explosive bursts to underscore themes of resilience and desperation.[103][104]Character development and personas
Bryan Danielson's early career on the independent circuit and in Ring of Honor (ROH) featured the "American Dragon" persona, portraying an arrogant technician who emphasized pure wrestling skills and technical dominance over opponents.[19] This character, developed during his time in promotions like ROH from 2002 to 2009, highlighted his self-assured mastery of submission holds and mat-based grappling, often belittling foes to underscore his superiority in legitimate-style bouts.[105] Upon his full-time return to WWE in 2010, Danielson transitioned to a blue-collar babyface archetype, embodying the resilient underdog who overcame corporate barriers and larger adversaries through grit and fan support.[35] This everyman persona resonated with audiences, positioning him as a relatable working-class hero challenging the establishment, particularly during his United States Championship reign and feuds with figures like The Miz.[106] By 2013–2014, this evolved into the iconic "Yes! Man" movement, where his enthusiastic "Yes!" chants and accompanying arm-waving gesture became a interactive rallying cry, galvanizing crowds to demand his main-event push against WWE's planned hierarchy.[107] The movement's organic growth turned his character into a symbol of fan-driven rebellion, culminating in his WrestleMania 30 triumph, with the "Yes! Lock" submission hold—renaming his signature omoplata crossface—serving as a thematic tie-in to enforce his defiant spirit.[35] In 2018, Danielson underwent a dramatic heel turn, reemerging as "The New" Bryan with an eco-warrior persona that weaponized environmental advocacy against fans and rivals, criticizing consumerism, factory farming, and pollution in pointed promos.[68] This shift, requested by Danielson to evolve beyond his prior babyface role, integrated real-life veganism and sustainability into storylines, such as berating audiences for plastic use and overconsumption while cheating to retain his WWE Championship.[108] A key prop was his custom eco-friendly title belt, made from oak and hemp instead of leather, which he introduced in January 2019 to decry the original's "skinned cow" origins and symbolize anti-excess themes.[68] Upon debuting in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in 2021, Danielson revived elements of his "American Dragon" roots while adopting a veteran mentor role within the Blackpool Combat Club (BCC), blending technical expertise with fierce faction loyalty.[109] As the group's de facto leader alongside Jon Moxley, he guided younger members like Wheeler Yuta, imparting hardcore wrestling philosophy through intense training vignettes and tag-team defenses that emphasized unbreakable bonds and brutal realism.[110] This persona reinforced his status as a grizzled authority figure, occasionally incorporating environmental nods in promos but prioritizing BCC's code of combat over individualism.[109]Other media
Books and publications
Bryan Danielson co-authored his autobiography Yes: My Improbable Journey to the Main Event of WrestleMania with Craig Tello, published in July 2015 by Simon & Schuster.[111] The book details his early life, independent wrestling career, and ascent in WWE, emphasizing the "Yes!" Movement that propelled him to the main event of WrestleMania 30 in 2014.[111] It became a New York Times bestseller, offering insights into his personal struggles, including health challenges and the physical toll of professional wrestling.[112] In September 2021, shortly after departing WWE for All Elite Wrestling, Danielson penned a reflective essay titled "Thank You, WWE" for The Players' Tribune.[113] The piece expresses gratitude for his WWE tenure, highlighting how the organization transformed his life and career while acknowledging the creative fulfillment he sought elsewhere.[113] This publication marked a notable non-book contribution, providing fans with a firsthand account of his transition between promotions.[114] Danielson has occasionally shared his aspirations for further writing, noting in a 2024 interview that reading inspires him to craft short stories, though no additional published works have followed his autobiography.[115]Film, television, and video games
Bryan Danielson has made several appearances in film and television, primarily in roles that intersect with his wrestling career but extend into animated and reality formats. In 2015, he provided the voice for the character Daniel Bryrock in the animated direct-to-video film The Flintstones & WWE: Stone Age SmackDown!, a crossover production featuring WWE wrestlers reimagined in the prehistoric setting of the classic Hanna-Barbera series.[116] This marked his only credited acting role in a non-live-action feature to date.[117] On television, Danielson featured prominently in the E! reality series Total Divas from 2014 to 2019, appearing alongside his wife Brie Bella in episodes that documented their family life, wedding preparations, and personal challenges outside the ring. Notable episodes include "Wedding Mania" (Season 2, 2014), where their marriage was highlighted, and various installments exploring their transition to parenthood.[118] Additionally, he was the subject of the WWE Network documentary Daniel Bryan: Just Say Yes! Yes! Yes! (2015), which chronicled his journey to WrestleMania 30, including exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes footage of his "Yes!" movement.[119] In video games, Danielson has been a playable character across multiple titles tied to his professional affiliations. He debuted as Daniel Bryan in the WWE 2K series with WWE '12 (2011) and appeared in subsequent installments through WWE 2K22 (2022), showcasing his signature moves like the "Yes! Lock" submission.[120] Following his move to All Elite Wrestling, he returned under his real name in AEW: Fight Forever (2023), where gameplay incorporated motion capture from his actual matches, such as those against Hangman Page, for authentic replication of his technical style.[121] He also provided voice work for his character in select WWE 2K entries, including WWE 2K19.[122] Danielson has made occasional guest appearances on wrestling-focused podcasts, contributing insights on his career and industry topics, such as episodes of The Nikki & Brie Show where he discussed retirement and family dynamics.[123] In September 2025, he appeared on the Superstar Crossover podcast, discussing mental health, John Cena's legacy, and upcoming AEW events.[124]Personal life
Family and relationships
Bryan Danielson and Brie Bella (born Brianna Monique Garcia-Colace) first crossed paths in 2010 through a WWE storyline that paired Danielson with the Bella Twins in a love triangle angle.[125] Their on-screen dynamic evolved into a real-life romance, and they began dating in 2011.[126] The couple got engaged in September 2013 during a hike in Big Sur, California, and married on April 11, 2014, in a private ceremony at L'Auberge Resort and Spa in Sedona, Arizona, attended by fellow WWE stars.[126] Danielson and Bella welcomed their first child, daughter Birdie Joe Danielson, on May 9, 2017.[126] Their son, Buddy Dessert Danielson, was born on August 1, 2020.[126] The family resided in Phoenix, Arizona, for several years before relocating to Napa Valley, California, in October 2020, shortly after the births of their children and following the couple's exits from WWE.[127] The Danielson family has shared glimpses of their life through reality television, notably on Total Divas and Total Bellas, where episodes captured their wedding, pregnancies, parenting challenges, and daily routines.[126] Danielson and Bella also collaborate on wellness initiatives, emphasizing sustainable living, environmental consciousness, and health-focused lifestyles, including through their Napa-based wine venture Bonita Bonita Wines.[128]Health issues and advocacy
Bryan Danielson has endured chronic neck injuries and a history of concussions throughout his wrestling career, culminating in his forced retirement from WWE in 2016. He sustained at least 10 documented concussions, which led to post-concussion seizures and a brain lesion, prompting medical experts to deem further in-ring competition too risky. These issues were exacerbated by prior neck damage, for which he underwent surgery in 2015, though the procedure caused long-term spinal complications in his upper neck.[129][130][4][131] In 2024 and 2025, Danielson faced renewed neck challenges, with MRIs revealing extensive damage extending down his spine, described by him as "trashed." He explored alternatives including stem cell treatments to avoid another fusion surgery but ultimately opted against further surgery, citing poor outcomes from his previous procedure and prioritizing long-term health over a return to full-time wrestling. This decision shifted his focus toward non-wrestling roles within AEW, with his family providing crucial support during recovery. As of November 2025, he continues rehabbing without surgery, managing symptoms while performing occasional commentary duties, and has confirmed that his condition precludes sustained in-ring activity.[132][133][134][135][136] Following his 2016 retirement, Danielson emerged as an advocate for concussion awareness in professional wrestling, emphasizing the dangers of repeated head trauma and the importance of honest reporting to prevent long-term damage. He has publicly discussed his own experiences with hiding symptoms, using them to highlight improved protocols in promotions like WWE and AEW, where he noted stricter return-to-play guidelines compared to earlier in his career.[137][138] Alongside his wife, Brie Bella, Danielson has been active in environmental causes and vegan advocacy since adopting a plant-based diet in 2009 for health reasons, including recurrent staph infections and elevated liver enzymes. The couple promotes sustainable living through organic gardening, composting, and efforts to minimize their carbon footprint, aspiring to establish a small organic farm. Their joint initiatives underscore a commitment to eco-conscious practices, with Danielson often crediting Bella's influence in maintaining these habits amid demanding schedules.[139][140][141]Championships and accomplishments
Professional wrestling championships
Bryan Danielson has achieved significant success as a champion across multiple promotions, capturing world titles in Ring of Honor, WWE, and All Elite Wrestling, along with secondary and tag team accolades. His reigns are noted for their length, quality of defenses, and impact on the promotions' landscapes, often showcasing his technical wrestling style in high-stakes matches.[1]Major World Championships
Danielson's most prominent title run began in Ring of Honor, where he captured the ROH World Championship on September 17, 2005, defeating Jamie Noble (James Gibson) at Glory by Honor IV.[23] This marked his first world title and solidified his status as a top independent wrestler. He held the championship for 462 days until losing it to Homicide on December 23, 2006, at Final Battle, making it one of the longest reigns in ROH history.[28] During this period, Danielson made 38 successful defenses against a diverse array of opponents, including international stars like KENTA at Glory by Honor V and Naomichi Marufuji at Final Battle 2005, highlighting the promotion's emphasis on pure wrestling.[23][142] In WWE, under the ring name Daniel Bryan, he won the United States Championship once, defeating The Miz on September 19, 2010, at Night of Champions.[143] His 176-day reign ended on March 14, 2011, when Sheamus defeated him on Raw, during which he defended the title against challengers like Jack Swagger and Mark Henry, establishing his credibility on the main roster.[144] Danielson won the World Heavyweight Championship on December 18, 2011, by cashing in his Money in the Bank contract on Big Show at TLC. His 105-day reign ended on April 1, 2012, when Sheamus defeated him in 18 seconds at WrestleMania XXVIII.[144] His accomplishments peaked with four WWE Championship reigns, each contributing to his legacy as an underdog champion backed by fervent fan support:| Reign | Date Won | Event | Length | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | September 15, 2013 | Night of Champions | 1 day | Defeated Randy Orton; lost the next night on Raw to Orton in a rematch.[145] |
| 2 | April 6, 2014 | WrestleMania 30 | 64 days | Unified the WWE and World Heavyweight titles by defeating Randy Orton and Batista; vacated due to neck injury on June 9, 2014.[146] |
| 3 | August 23, 2015 | SummerSlam | 91 days | Defeated Seth Rollins; lost to Roman Reigns at Survivor Series after defenses against Rollins and The Wyatt Family.[144] |
| 4 | November 13, 2018 | SmackDown Live | 145 days | Defeated AJ Styles as a heel champion; lost to Kofi Kingston at WrestleMania 35 following defenses against Styles and Samoa Joe.[145] |
Other Notable Championships
Earlier in his career, Danielson won the PWG World Championship twice. His first reign began on July 29, 2007, after defeating El Generico, lasting until January 5, 2008, when Low Ki dethroned him.[150] The second came on September 4, 2009, defeating Chris Hero at Guerre Sans Frontières in his final PWG appearance before joining WWE full-time; he vacated the title shortly after.[143] These victories highlighted his dominance in the Southern California indie scene. Danielson also held the APW Universal Heavyweight Championship once in 2001, defeating Christopher Daniels, though the exact reign length was short amid his early career development.[151] He won the ROH Pure Championship on June 17, 2006, defeating Nigel McGuinness at Death Before Dishonor III, holding it for 107 days until losing to the Briscoe Brothers on October 2, 2006.[144] Additionally, he captured the FIP World Heavyweight Championship on July 5, 2008, defeating Go Shiozaki, and held it for 462 days, unifying it with the ROH World Championship in 2009.[144] In WWE, Danielson won the Intercontinental Championship once on November 22, 2015, defeating Dolph Ziggler at Survivor Series, holding it for 119 days until losing to Kevin Owens on March 20, 2016, on Raw.[144] He also secured tag team success, winning the WWE World Tag Team Championship with Kane on April 29, 2012, at Extreme Rules (held until June 17, 2012), and the WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championship with Luke Harper (Rowan) on August 11, 2019, at SummerSlam (held until September 15, 2019).[144]Other awards and honors
Bryan Danielson was inducted into the Ring of Honor Hall of Fame as part of its inaugural class in 2022, recognizing his foundational contributions to the promotion, including a record-setting 462-day reign as ROH World Champion from 2005 to 2006. In the Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards, Danielson was named the Best Technical Wrestler for nine consecutive years from 2005 to 2013, a streak that led to the category being renamed the Bryan Danielson Award in 2016 in his honor. He also received the newsletter's Most Outstanding Wrestler award in 2013, highlighting his pivotal role in WWE's "Yes! Movement" storyline that year. In 2024, he placed third in the Most Outstanding Wrestler voting, behind Cody Rhodes and Will Ospreay, amid a standout final year in All Elite Wrestling that included winning the AEW World Championship. Pro Wrestling Illustrated recognized Danielson as Wrestler of the Year in 2013, crediting his in-ring excellence and fan connection during his WWE Championship pursuit.[152] He was also voted PWI's Most Technical Wrestler in 2013 and 2014, underscoring his mastery of submission holds and mat-based grappling.[152] At the WWE Slammy Awards, Danielson won Superstar of the Year in 2013, reflecting his meteoric rise to main-event status.[153] He earned additional Slammy honors that year, including Catchphrase of the Year for "Yes! Yes! Yes!" and Beard of the Year, further cementing his cultural impact.[154] In All Elite Wrestling, Danielson won the 2024 Owen Hart Foundation Men's Tournament, defeating Hangman Page in the finals to earn a shot at the AEW World Championship, which he captured at All In later that year.[155]| Award | Year(s) | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| Best Technical Wrestler | 2005–2013 | Wrestling Observer Newsletter |
| Most Outstanding Wrestler | 2013 | Wrestling Observer Newsletter |
| Wrestler of the Year | 2013 | Pro Wrestling Illustrated |
| Most Technical Wrestler | 2013, 2014 | Pro Wrestling Illustrated |
| Superstar of the Year | 2013 | WWE Slammy Awards |
| Owen Hart Foundation Men's Tournament | 2024 | All Elite Wrestling |