Bryan Danielson Stuns AEW Fans With Unique In-Ring Return
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Bryan Danielson made a surprise in-ring return during an AEW taping on June 25. He won the match in a reported eight seconds.
This was Danielson's first match since losing the AEW World Championship to Jon Moxley at WrestleDream in October 2024. He has since maintained a backstage role with the company.
Bryan Danielson's Quick Return To Action
During the taping, Max Caster issued an open challenge, which Danielson answered. Before the match began, Adam Cole superkicked Caster.
Once the bell rang, Danielson immediately applied the LeBell Lock. Caster tapped out, giving Danielson the victory in just eight seconds.
This was Danielson's first official match since retiring as a full-time wrestler. He has made several non-televised appearances recently, including saving Blue Panther at Grand Slam Mexico.
More news: WWE News: Steve Austin Reveals Real-Life Vince McMahon Confrontation
Danielson Discusses His In-Ring Future
Despite the return, Danielson remains uncertain about his future as a wrestler. He has stated that his health is his top priority.
March 3, 2024 – AEW Continental Champion / NJPW STRONG Openweight Champion / ROH World Champion Eddie Kingston takes a kick from Bryan Danielson during AEW Revolution.
March 3, 2024 – AEW Continental Champion / NJPW STRONG Openweight Champion / ROH World Champion Eddie Kingston takes a kick from Bryan Danielson during AEW Revolution.
Jeff Jones/AEW
In a recent interview with Fightful, he discussed his desire to avoid another neck surgery. He placed the odds of him ever wrestling again at 50/50.
"My priority is my health," Danielson stated. "I think the odds of me wrestling again, ever, are probably 50/50 at this point."
He explained that if avoiding surgery meant he could not wrestle again, he would accept that outcome.
"If I could live comfortably without neck surgery, but it means that I wouldn't get to wrestle again, I think I'd be okay with that trade-off," he said.
Danielson first made a name for himself in Ring of Honor, where he was a "founding father" and held the ROH World Championship for a legendary 462 days.
His success skyrocketed in WWE, where he became a five-time world champion and a Grand Slam Champion, holding every major men's title. His most iconic moment was the culmination of the "Yes! Movement," where he won two matches at WrestleMania 30 to become the undisputed champion in one of the most celebrated main events in history.
Since joining AEW in 2021, Danielson has continued his main event legacy, capturing the AEW World Championship and winning the prestigious Owen Hart Cup tournament, cementing his status as a top star in every promotion he has competed in.
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