Why Daniel Bryan Picked AEW Over WWE

Daniel Bryan is about to light the pro wrestling world on fire once again, but it will likely be for AEW this time. He reportedly signed a deal with the company and that news blew up yesterday.

One of the things that Daniel Bryan wanted was the ability to work in Japan. This was reportedly the crux to the reason why WWE was talking to NJPW in recent memory. Obviously, that deal hasn’t worked out yet while AEW continues to see NJPW talent and titles on their show.

During Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer said that AEW’s deal with NJPW was a big factor in signing with the company. Daniel Bryan stated in the past that he wants to work for other companies outside of America.

“As far as Bryan Danielson goes, I’m pretty sure that whatever decision — I mean there are a lot of factors that are going into whatever decision he would make — it was New Japan, AEW, and WWE. He didn’t consider anybody else. He has loyalty to WWE and Vince McMahon, and he has a lot of friends in WWE. In the end, the company who had the relationship with New Japan would be the favorite to get him.”

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WWE President Nick Khan tried to get a deal with NJPW going, but it appears that deal is very far from happening. A NJPW title just changed hands on an AEW show as Lance Archer defeated Jon Moxley for the IWGP United States Title. That signifies a pretty close relationship between the two companies.

It appears that Daniel Bryan is on his way to AEW. You can click here for a spoiler on AEW’s plan for his debut.

What’s your take on Daniel Bryan joining AEW? Sound off in the comments!

Transcription by Ringside News