During a recent episode of AEW Dynamite, Bryan Danielson, also known as The American Dragon in wrestling, made an appearance in the ring that will be remembered by fans for a long time. Danielson shared a heartfelt message with a mix of nostalgia and emotion that seemed more like a goodbye speech than just a promotion.
While the audience in Greenville eagerly watched, Danielson fondly remembered the city that has a significant meaning to him—the location where he and his wife, Brie Bella, had their engagement photos taken, a spot rich with memories of love and dedication. However, the biggest surprise occurred when he mentioned a commitment he made to his daughter: to retire from playing when she reached the age of seven.
A warrior’s final battle
Even with strong feelings and a commitment to his loved ones, Danielson was adamant that he only had one more opportunity to win the AEW World Championship. The stakes are at their peak, and the American Dragon is prepared to gamble everything at AEW All In, even if it means disregarding medical guidance and the worries of his family and friends.
Just as the audience believed the atmosphere couldn’t become more intense, Swerve Strickland, the current AEW World Champion, made himself known. During Danielson’s emotional address, Strickland stepped in to share his message, showing admiration for the veteran but also making it clear that he had no intention of surrendering the title any time shortly. Strickland went as far as to vow that Danielson will never wrestle again.
However, Danielson, always showing courage, countered with his challenge. In the event of losing at All In, he will step down from professional wrestling full-time. The risk has never been greater.
The looming shadow of surgery
As the date for AEW All In draws closer, there’s a dark cloud hanging over Danielson’s future. Two weeks stand between him and the match that could define his legacy, and the American Dragon is facing more than just the challenge of Strickland—he’s battling his own body.
In an interview with Jim Ross on AEW Collision, Danielson revealed the harsh reality of his situation. “Even the way I’m feeling right now… I mean, the odds are I’m gonna have to get neck surgery before the end of this year. That’s the reality of it… That’s something that I’ve accepted is coming down the pike relatively soon,” he confessed. It was a moment that left fans both concerned and in awe of his determination.
The neck problems that have plagued Danielson in recent months are not just minor setbacks; they are serious enough to potentially end his career, regardless of the outcome at All In. Yet, despite the odds, Danielson is pushing forward, driven by the desire to leave everything in the ring one last time.
Bryan Danielson just revealed he will need neck surgery before the end of this year 🥺 pic.twitter.com/6vvAsgjxi8
— Dark Puroresu Flowsion (@PuroresuFlow) August 11, 2024
The countdown to all-in
With just days to go before AEW All In, the question on everyone’s mind is simple—can Bryan Danielson overcome the odds? The man who has defined resilience in the wrestling world is now facing what could be his final battle, and the pressure is mounting.
AEW recently released an interview with Danielson on YouTube, where he mentioned that Dr. Sampson, the company’s trusted physician, had strongly advised him against wrestling until All In. Confirmation of these reports came from Sean Ross Sapp, who disclosed that Danielson’s current physical state has resulted in rigorous limitations on his involvement in recent activities. This has caused fans to question whether Danielson will be able to showcase his best performance in the main event, or if his body will fail him when he needs it most.
What are Bryan Danielson’s plans?
There is a lot of speculation circulating in the wrestling community. Should Danielson be defeated at All-In, his professional wrestling career will likely be over. However, what is in store for The American Dragon in the future? Could we witness him move into a different position at AEW, or possibly opt to completely exit the spotlight instead? These questions are the ones that keep fans awake at night, and the answers might only be revealed after all is said and done at All In.
At this moment, everyone is focused on Bryan Danielson getting ready to battle Swerve Strickland in what might be the most crucial match of his career. The result is unknown, but it is evident that whether he wins or loses, Danielson is already established as one of the top wrestlers in history.
