Bryan Danielson: Iconic Matches, YES Movement, Retirement, WrestleMania 30, Brie Bella

Dec 4, 2025

Bryan Danielson, a professional wrestler and AEW commentator known for his iconic roles as Daniel Bryan and the American Dragon, shares his journey in wrestling. He candidly discusses leaving WWE for AEW, the origins of the YES Movement, and the emotional rollercoaster of WrestleMania 30. Bryan opens up about his cervical degeneration, views on retirement, and the storytelling role of commentary. He even touches on family life with Brie Bella, illustrating his gratitude for loved ones amid the wrestling chaos.

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ADVICE

Tell Commentators What Matters

Bring specific match details to commentators before showtime so they can help tell your story.
Bryan Danielson recommends proactively communicating key points you want called during a match.

INSIGHT

Commentary Is A Learnable Craft

Commentary is a learned skill that requires study and review to improve.
Danielson watches past broadcasts and older greats to refine his commentary craft.

ADVICE

Increase Warmups With Age

Warm up thoroughly before matches, increasing to 30–45 minutes as you age.
Danielson credits Randy Orton's detailed warm-up routine for prolonging ring longevity.

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Bryan Danielson (@bryandanielson) is a professional wrestler and announcer currently signed to AEW. He sits down with Chris Van Vliet in Houston, TX to discuss his new role on AEW commentary, if he has retired from the ring, why he left WWE to sign with AEW, the segment that got hijacked by fans, the YES Movement, losing to Sheamus in 18 seconds, winning in the main event of WrestleMania 30, if a Brie Bella return is possible, and more!

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