Bryan Danielson Reveals WWE’s Last Attempt to Re-Sign Him Before AEW Debut

Back in 2021, before Bryan Danielson joined AEW, the company’s then-owner Vince McMahon made a final push to retain the “American Dragon’s services. Despite his WWE career being incredible, Bryan Danielson felt it was time to go in a different direction.

Bryan’s Storied WWE Career

The former WWE Champion was not always lucky in his early years with the company; however, his WWE experience eventually proved to be legendary. Bryan Danielson won several world titles and also featured in some of the most compelling storylines greenlighted by WWE over the last twenty years.

In addition to the names and plots, Bryan fought in multiple bouts that are still considered to be among the best witnessed in a WWE ring. One of, if not the most notable moments Danielson had as Daniel Bryan includes his “Yes” movement run in 2014, which led to his historic, feel-good WrestleMania XXX victory.

Why Bryan Danielson Chose AEW

Being one of the most prominent stars of WWE, Bryan Danielson had a desire to do more before he called it a career. He was drawn to AEW’s wrestling-focused approach rather than WWE’s entertainment-centered model. Even though he was proud of everything that he had accomplished in WWE, he wanted to test himself in other areas. However, that doesn’t mean Vince McMahon didn’t make a last attempt to retain him.

WWE made one final attempt to re-sign Bryan Danielson before he officially joined AEW. This was not the first time that he informed Vince McMahon of his exit. In early August, his decision had been final, and only a few days before All Out, McMahon contacted him once more with a new suggestion, throwing another undisclosed figure Danielson’s way. Bryan stood firm, explaining that he had already given his word. McMahon respected his honesty, admitting that he was right to honor his commitment.