Ex-WWE & AEW World Champion’s In-Ring Career Likely Over

An ex-WWE and AEW Champion’s wrestling days may be behind them.

In June, Bryan Danielson teased stepping back into the squared circle after taking on a dark match, where he defeated Max Caster at Collision in 8 seconds.

Danielson has not actively wrestled since his unsuccessful title defense against Jon Moxley at the 2024 WrestleDream PPV.

Amid speculations of an in-ring return, it was reported that the 44-year-old was offered a full-time job as a commentator in AEW.

Tony Khan had even tweeted about it, keeping the fans updated about Danielson’s role within the Florida promotion.

Throughout his wrestling career, one of his storied rivalries was with Nigel McGuinness, dating back to their Ring of Honor days.

The two even battled at AEW Dynamite Grand Slam in September 2024, where Danielson beat McGuinness in an epic match. The Brit recently discussed Danielson’s wrestling future.

Nigel McGuinness Speculates About Bryan Danielson’s AEW Future

While Bryan Danielson has taken on the role of a commentator, Nigel McGuinness has walked in the opposite direction, moving from commentary and stepping into the ring.

The 49-year-old British star recently competed for the IWGP World Heavyweight Title, unsuccessfully challenging Zack Sabre Jr. at Forbidden Door.

While speaking to The Magic of Wrestling, he spoke about Danielson’s future.

I think the only reason he might do that is because he sees me do it, and once again, jealousy becomes a factor and he realises ‘I was never as good a wrestler as Nigel when I was full-time, now I could come back…’ so I don’t think so.

McGuinness also took a jab at his family life, claiming he might not return for the sake of his wife and children.

I think he’s enjoying his life with his kids. He has probably made some sort of promise to his missus in that regard, that would be my guess. He doesn’t want to get on the wrong side of her as well, she clearly wears the pants in the relationship. [H/T: Ringside News]

Also read: AEW Legend Reacts To Bryan Danielson Joining Commentary Team