Bryan Danielson hasnt wrestled since dropping the AEW World Title to Jon Moxley at AEW Wrestle Dynastyand now we know why. Hes not cleared to compete. But behind the scenes, AEW still has plans in motion, just in case the American Dragon gets the green light.
Danielson recently revealed on the Daly Migs Show that while hes still active behind the curtain, stepping inside the ring isnt an option right now.
According to Fightful Select, Danielsons in-ring future has been in question for some timebut his presence within AEW has never fully disappeared. Hes still involved as a creative consultant and often helps out backstage or with media. Sources confirmed AEW has been very deliberate with its wording, only referring to Danielson as being done full-time, leaving the door open for a future return.
Danielsons last major update came in December when he said that he wasnt feeling physically great and wanted to avoid surgery if possible. Theres been no confirmation that hes undergone any procedures since then. His neck remains a major concern, but his love for wrestling is still burning.
That showed when Danielson made a surprise appearance at ROH Global Wars: Mexico, jumping in to make the save for lucha libre legend Blue Panther. AEW sources said that this moment was deeply personal for Danielson, and the company even brought in Shane Taylor Promotions specifically to build around that angle.
Despite not being active in the ring, AEW has already set up subtle callbacks for a Danielson return. One example: Wheeler YUTA has been incorporating Danielsons signature moves into his own arsenal. Were told that these arent coincidencestheyre breadcrumbs for when (or if) Bryan gets cleared to compete again.
Backstage, there was even a moment that raised eyebrows: Danielson took a back bump. Sources say it helped solidify internal belief that hell eventually be back inside the ring, even if not on a full-time basis.
Bryan Danielson might be sidelined, but AEW clearly hasnt stopped planning for a returnand fans havent stopped hoping for one.
Do you want to see Bryan Danielson wrestle again, or should he call it a career for the sake of his health? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
