Bryan Danielson Reveals Vince McMahon’s Last-Minute attempt to Retain Him
Bryan Danielson’s journey to All Elite Wrestling (AEW) wasn’t a foregone conclusion until the very last moment. Just days before his stunning debut at All out in September 2021, WWE Chairman Vince McMahon made a final, direct appeal to keep “The American Dragon” within the company.Danielson recently shared this insight during an interview while promoting AEW’s upcoming shows in australia.He explained that his contract with AEW wasn’t finalized until a mere two or three days before he stepped into the AEW ring.
When WWE learned this, they immediately reached out. They inquired if there was anything they could do to change his mind. This wasn’t the first conversation, however.
Earlier in August, Danielson had already informed McMahon of his decision to leave.McMahon followed up with one offer after another, attempting to sway him.He proposed different opportunities, trying to find a scenario that would keep Danielson in WWE.
However, Danielson’s mind was firmly set on AEW. The final call from McMahon, just five days before All out, confirmed that. Danielson recounted the conversation, emphasizing his commitment to honoring his word.
“Sir, I’ve already agreed to this thing,” Danielson told McMahon. “If I was somebody to go back on this, like, I feel like you have a decent amount of respect for me, would you still respect me? One of the things that you respect about me is I honor my word.”
McMahon, known for his own strong principles, ultimately conceded. He acknowledged danielson’s integrity with a simple, “Dammit, you’re right.”
This exchange highlights the respect between the two men, even as they found themselves on opposing sides of the wrestling world.It also underscores Danielson’s unwavering commitment to his principles.
A New Role for ”The American Dragon”
Currently, Danielson is taking on a new challenge within AEW. He’s now a full-time member of the AEW Dynamite commentary team.
This move adds another layer to his already important contribution to the company. You can expect to hear his expert analysis every Wednesday night. It’s a role that allows him to share his deep wrestling knowledge with fans in a new and engaging way.
This transition demonstrates AEW’s confidence in Danielson’s abilities beyond the ring. It also provides fans with a unique perspective from one of the sport’s most respected performers.
you can find the full interview with Danielson to hear his story firsthand. His comments regarding McMahon’s final attempt to sign him begin around the 7:22 mark.