Bryan Danielson Reveals Why He Didn’t Compete in G1 Climax Tournament

Bryan Danielson is undoubtedly one of the premier professional wrestlers worldwide, having competed at the highest echelons for many years. However, his body is wearing down and he has now revealed how that played a factor in him not competing in the G1 Climax tournament this year.

Bryan Danielson has been dealing with neck injuries in recent months. In May, he disclosed that doctors had advised him he would soon need surgery, and by June, he mentioned that his neck was still in poor condition. Despite these issues, Danielson is set to challenge Swerve Strickland for the AEW World Championship at AEW All In.

Bryan Danielson had previously shown interest in participating in the G1 Climax tournament, especially after his appearances at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 18 and his match against Zack Sabre Jr. at NJPW New Beginning in Osaka in February. Despite his enthusiasm, Danielson was not included in the tournament lineup.

While speaking to Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated, Danielson shared that he expressed his desire to compete in the G1 to NJPW booker Gedo during the winter. He mentioned that his excitement about the tournament was high after his recent match in Japan, but he acknowledged that it seemed unlikely at the time.

“Over the winter, I told Gedo, the booker in New Japan, ‘I would love to do the G1 this year!’ I’d just wrestled Zack Sabre in Japan [in February]. I was so excited. It all happened in the heat of the moment. I would like to think it would be possible. I don’t limit possibilities in my mind. But it seems unlikely.”

Danielson cited his health as a major concern, specifically ongoing neck issues. Even if Tony Khan were to allow him to participate, Danielson mentioned that he would be hesitant to be away from his family for an extended period. He also noted that his wife might not support the idea due to health concerns. While Danielson has always wanted to compete in the G1, he recognized that it might not be feasible for him at this time.

“My neck isn’t doing real great right now. So there’s my health. But even if Tony [Khan] freed me up for the entire summer and said, ‘Go do the G1,’ I wouldn’t want to leave my wife and kids for that long. I don’t think my wife would think it was good for my health, either. I’ve always wanted to do the G1. I don’t know if that’s going to be in the cards for me, and that’s OK.”

We have also reported that the American Dragon is facing health concerns ahead of AEW All In. Nonetheless, it is unfortunate Danielson never got to compete in the G1 Climax tournament but fans at least got to see him in the Continental Classic last year, which still mattered.

Are you disappointed Bryan Danielson never got to compete in the G1 Climax tournament? Sound off in the comments section below!