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Newsweek
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Bryan Danielson Makes Surprise Wrestling Appearance Amid AEW Hiatus
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. AEW star Bryan Danielson made a noteworthy and unexpected appearance at the independent wrestling show "ACTION DEAN~!!!2" on Saturday, May 24, 2025. This was a welcome sight for wrestling fans, particularly as significant questions continue to circulate regarding his future as an active in-ring competitor in All Elite Wrestling. During the event, Danielson entered the ring and shared a respectful hug with the legendary luchador Blue Panther. This interaction was a special moment for those in attendance and quickly generated buzz online. This public appearance at a wrestling show is Danielson's first in front of a live crowd since his last official AEW match at the WrestleDream pay-per-view in October 2024. At that event, the celebrated former World Champion was defeated by his Blackpool Combat Club stablemate, Jon Moxley, in a hard-fought AEW World Championship main event. More news: WWE News: Steve Austin Reveals Real-Life Vince McMahon Confrontation In the periods both before and after WrestleDream 2024, Danielson had spoken openly and reflectively about his in-ring career potentially nearing its conclusion. These candid remarks led many fans and observers to speculate whether he had already wrestled his final match, making his recent appearance at "ACTION DEAN~!!!2" all the more intriguing. It's understood that despite his absence from AEW television as an active wrestler, Danielson continues to contribute significantly to the company behind the scenes. He reportedly fulfills various backstage roles, which can include being a disciplinary figure when necessary, leveraging his vast experience and respected standing within the industry. 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 The primary reason for Danielson's reduced in-ring schedule and the uncertainty surrounding his future performances stems from ongoing health concerns. He is reportedly dealing with "serious neck problems" and, according to reports, "has yet to get surgery for them." This physical challenge is a major factor as he considers if and when he will compete again. His appearance at the independent show was non-physical, with no indication of a return to strenuous in-ring action at that specific event. Fans of "The American Dragon" will continue monitoring his status closely, hoping for positive news regarding his health and a potential return to the squared circle, while appreciating his continued contributions to AEW in his backstage capacity. Regardless of what Danielson does, he has had a great career. More WWE News: For more on WWE, head to Newsweek Sports.
Newsweek
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Bryan Danielson Finally Reveals Why He Left WWE For AEW
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Bryan Danielson's decision to leave WWE for AEW in 2021 sent shockwaves through the wrestling world. In recent interviews, the "American Dragon" has provided insight into the emotional catalyst for that move, the highs of his AEW run, and the physical toll that ultimately led to the end of his full-time career. Danielson revealed to TalkSport that AEW's handling of the tribute show for his late friend Jon Huber (Brodie Lee/Luke Harper) profoundly influenced his choice while he was still under WWE contract. "We had a wrestler, Brodie Lee, who had passed away. AEW did this incredible tribute show. At that point, I was still with WWE," Danielson explained. "And the way AEW did that show. Brodie was my friend... it touched something in me and in my mind." This heartfelt presentation shifted his perspective on the upstart promotion. He recalled thinking: "I was thinking like, 'Oh, these are the good guys of professional wrestling'." Joining AEW later that year, Danielson embarked on a run filled with acclaimed matches and character work, eventually forming the Blackpool Combat Club. His AEW career perhaps peaked at the historic All In event at Wembley Stadium in London during August 2024. NEW ORLEANS, LA - APRIL 03: Daniel Bryan (L) and Brie Bella attend WWE's 2014 SuperStars For Kids at the New Orleans Museum of Art on April 3, 2014 in New Orleans NEW ORLEANS, LA - APRIL 03: Daniel Bryan (L) and Brie Bella attend WWE's 2014 SuperStars For Kids at the New Orleans Museum of Art on April 3, 2014 in New Orleans There, Danielson defeated Swerve Strickland to capture the AEW World Championship, a moment he later described as his favorite career highlight, largely due to celebrating in the ring with his wife and children afterward. However, Danielson's time in AEW was also marked by significant injuries. He suffered a broken forearm in a match against Kazuchika Okada in 2023 and later a broken orbital bone. Throughout 2024, increasingly severe neck issues plagued his final months as a full-time competitor, notably aggravated after his match with Will Ospreay in April 2024. More news: WWE News: Steve Austin Reveals Real-Life Vince McMahon Confrontation These cumulative injuries, particularly the neck condition he now describes as "wrecked," led Danielson to designate his AEW World Championship defense against Jon Moxley at WrestleDream in October 2024 as his final match as a full-time performer. He lost the title to Moxley in that bout and has been inactive in the ring since. As of April 2025, Danielson remains focused on rehabilitation, reportedly exploring stem cell treatments as he actively tries to avoid potentially career-ending neck surgery. While not completely ruling out sporadic future appearances under specific circumstances, he has stated he currently has no desire to wrestle and is "at peace" with stepping back to prioritize his long-term health and family. He continues his affiliation with AEW, reportedly in a backstage advisory or creative role. More WWE News: For more on WWE, head to Newsweek Sports.
