Bryan Danielson opens up on when he could return to WWE
Bryan Danielson recently opened up on where he stands on the prospect of a future WWE return. The 43-year-old star currently performs for AEW, having debuted for the promotion in 2021.
Prior to his shocking debut in the Tony Khan-led promotion at All Out three years ago, Danielson was signed with WWE, where he had a legendary run of over a decade. Despite not fitting the typical mould of success in the Stamford-based company, The American Dragon became one of its most enduringly popular stars, with multiple world championship reigns and iconic storylines to his name. Now, the BCC member is looking to wind down on his full-time career, and will challenge AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland in a Title vs. Career bout at AEW All In 2024 this month.
Towards the end of an interview with Gorilla Position, Bryan Danielson was asked about his interest in a potential WWE comeback. The Washington-native did not entirely dismiss the possibility, but emphasized that he would consider jumping ship only if doing so proved beneficial for the health of the wrestling industry, painting a specific scenario wherein AEW emerges as the new dominant force in the market and WWE goes through a creative downturn.
"I mean, I would never say never, but if I would, it would have to be in a case where I felt like going there was better for the industry. So for example, imagine in ten years, all of a sudden something happened to their creative process and they are just horrible, and AEW has completely taken over and it's become a one-sided business on the other side - yeah, then maybe I would consider it." [48:06 - 48:38]
Danielson added that he enjoys his current spot in AEW, albeit not being under contract, and suggested that he may not be interested in signing another long-term deal.
"But I love where I'm at now. And I'm also not under contract. Realistically, I think I just wanna be free. You know, that's kind of.. I just wanna be free. [In response to whether a Hall of Fame ring could entice him] I mean, I have no interest in outside accolades. None, none whatsoever." [48:39 - 48:58]
Ex-WWE star Bryan Danielson reflected on his relationship with Vince McMahon and John Laurinaitis
Despite having held important executive positions over the years in WWE, both Vince McMahon and John Laurinaitis are no longer affiliated with the Triple H-led promotion owing to the allegations brought against them earlier this year.
Bryan Danielson, who happens to be Laurinaitis' stepson-in-law and who used to be close with McMahon, recently spoke about his altered perception of the two men in light of the allegations. Talking with Gorilla Position, Danielson voiced his empathy for the survivors of McMahon and Laurinaitis' alleged abuse, prioritizing their well-being over his own feelings on the matter.
It remains to be seen if Bryan Danielson will become AEW World Champion at All In 2024.
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