Bryan Danielson Looks Back on His 2021 Exit from WWE and What Led to It

In May 2021, Bryan Danielson concluded his time with WWE after opting not to re-sign following WrestleMania 36. Just four months later, “The American Dragon” made a memorable debut in AEW at All Out and has frequently expressed his contentment with his choice to join the promotion.

Within a short span of three years, he has headlined five pay-per-views and successfully claimed the AEW World Championship. Reflecting on his 2021 decision to depart WWE, Danielson shared with “Inside The Ropes” that he was considering multiple paths for his wrestling career at that time.

“Many people see it as just two choices, AEW or WWE, but there were four options on the table. AEW, WWE, not wrestling at all—which was a serious consideration—and also not signing any contract, allowing me to participate in events like G1 without needing anyone’s approval.

My departure wasn’t due to Vince [McMahon] being in charge or dissatisfaction with WWE’s product. There were simply things I wanted to pursue that I couldn’t do in WWE, and that remains true today,” the AEW star explained.

Danielson also mentioned that while he appreciated his experiences in WWE, he would have made the same decision to join AEW regardless of the leadership situation at the company in 2021.