Folks, we’ve got a real American Dragon dilemma on our hands. Bryan Danielson, a guy who’s no stranger to putting it all on the line, is heading into a massive match at All In at Wembley Stadium—no biggie, just his career on the line in an AEW World Championship match against Swerve Strickland. But here’s the kicker: he’s doing it all without a contract! That’s right, folks. His AEW deal went poof on August 1, and as of now, he’s a free agent in every sense of the word.
Now, Danielson, ever the zen master, told Fightful Select that he’s going into his “Final Countdown” with zero regrets. His contract expired, and what did he do? Nothing. Because apparently, checking his phone isn’t a high priority—unless AEW President Tony Khan is on the line. Then, and only then, does he give a ring-a-ding-ding. He did hint that they’ll “explore options when the time comes,” but let’s face it, folks, Danielson’s more focused on making sure his neck doesn’t become a modern art installation in some orthopedic surgeon’s office. Surgery might be on the horizon, but hey, that’s just part of the game for a guy who’s been kicking heads and taking names for years.
But wait, there’s more! You see, Danielson isn’t just about suplexes and submissions. He’s also been moonlighting as a member of AEW’s disciplinary committee. It’s like being on jury duty but with more headlocks and fewer donuts. He confessed it’s not exactly a fun gig, but he’s honored to serve. As for his post-wrestling plans with the committee? Well, let’s just say he’s playing that one close to the vest. The man might have hung up his boots by the time the next brawl breaks out backstage, leaving the disciplinary duties to someone else—perhaps an actual judge or a well-trained border collie.
For those keeping score at home, Danielson has been very clear that 2024 is his last year of full-time wrestling. He’s been down this retirement road before, but this time he says he means it. His last contract, the one that expired on August 1, was supposedly the final one he’d ever sign. Why, you ask? Simple. He wants to be there for his two kids, who, let’s face it, probably have cooler moves than half the AEW roster.
So, will Bryan Danielson sign a new deal, or will he ride off into the sunset with his wrestling career and his neck in one piece? Stay tuned, folks—this one’s going to be a real nail-biter!