Daniel Bryan, renowned for his "Yes!" movement and incredible in-ring prowess, ceased wrestling under various circumstances at different points in his career. His journey involved both a forced medical retirement and a later departure from a major promotion driven by a desire for creative autonomy.
Initial Retirement Due to Medical Concerns (2016)
The first significant period when Daniel Bryan stepped away from active competition was in February 2016. This decision was primarily driven by serious medical issues, specifically multiple concussions and lingering post-concussion symptoms.
- Concussion History: Throughout his career, Bryan accumulated a significant history of concussions, which raised serious concerns about his long-term neurological health.
- Medical Disqualification: Despite his desire to continue, WWE's medical team ultimately did not clear him to compete, prioritizing his well-being. This led to his emotional retirement announcement on Monday Night Raw, where he explained the difficult decision based on doctors' recommendations for his own health and future.
- A Brief Return: After years of extensive medical treatment and consultations with specialists outside WWE, Daniel Bryan was remarkably cleared to return to in-ring action in March 2018, defying earlier prognoses.
Departure from WWE for Creative Freedom (2021)
Beyond his initial retirement, Daniel Bryan also ceased wrestling for World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) in 2021, choosing not to re-sign with the company when his contract expired. This departure was largely fueled by a profound desire for increased creative freedom and the ability to express his character more authentically.
- Quest for Authenticity: Bryan sought greater control over his in-ring persona and the narratives surrounding his character. He aimed to portray a more gritty and realistic version of himself, which included the freedom to incorporate elements like bleeding in matches. Such practices are generally not permitted under WWE's family-friendly, PG-era guidelines.
- Creative Control: His pursuit of a wrestling environment that offered more artistic and in-ring control ultimately led to his decision to leave the promotion. He aimed to explore new opportunities where he could push creative boundaries that were not available to him within WWE.
- Privacy and Transition: While the precise details of his discussions leading to this pivotal decision remain private, reflecting a mutual respect for Vince McMahon's privacy, his move marked a significant new chapter. He subsequently joined All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in September 2021, adopting the name Bryan Danielson and immediately engaging in high-profile matches that showcased his desired creative and in-ring style.
| Reason for Stopping Wrestling | Period | Key Factors | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Retirement | 2016 | Multiple concussions, long-term health concerns | Forced retirement, later returned in 2018 |
| Departure from WWE | 2021 | Desire for creative freedom, authentic character portrayal, ability to bleed in matches | Left WWE, joined AEW |
Both instances represent distinct reasons for Daniel Bryan "stopping wrestling" in different capacities, showcasing his commitment to both his health and his artistic vision within professional wrestling.
