Can We Expect Bryan Danielson at Wembley’s All In?
As Danielson winds down his final year as a full-time wrestler, Wembley Stadium may be a keystone in finalizing his legacy.
“American Dragon” Bryan Danielson will likely go down as one of professional wrestling’s most appreciated technicians. He is a five-time Wrestling Observer Newsletter “Outstanding Wrestler of the Year” and twelve-time “best technical wrestler” award winner – an award that was named after him. In both categories, he has received the award more than any other wrestler.
Since joining AEW in 2022, Danielson has also had some of the best matches of his career. His showdowns with Kenny Omega, Zack Sabre Jr., “Hangman” Adam Page, MJF, Kazuchika Okada, and Will Ospreay have received plenty of critical praise. Adding his work in Japan, Ring of Honor, and WWE to the mix, Danielson has amassed a storied career that will likely influence the next several generations of performers.
That said, the grappler has made it clear on multiple occasions that 2024 will mark his final year of in-ring competition. During a recent appearance on the “Casual Conversations with The Classic” podcast, Danielson noted that his current AEW contract actually expires prior to the promotion’s second annual All In event.
AEW’s 2023 showing drew one of the largest crowds in professional wrestling history to England’s famed Wembley Stadium. Danielson missed the event due to an injury he incurred during a match with Okada at the Forbidden Door event two months prior.
On wrestling at this year’s Wembley show, Danielson stated,
But I really want to be able to do Wembley and just see what that’s like, see what that feels like. So, yeah, that’s a big one for me.
Transcription credit to Joseph Currier/Wrestling Observer: Bryan Danielson’s AEW contract expires before All In, wants to wrestle at Wembley – F4W/WON (f4wonline.com)
Fans and analysts have speculated opponents for Danielson at the event. A Dynasty rematch against Ospreay or a match with longtime rival Nigel McGuiness, who last competed in 2011, are among the frontrunners.
Danielson has competed in the main event of two Wrestlemanias, but the gravitas of a show at Wembley would help cement a proper send-off.