Like CM Punk, Bryan was another indie darling who had to overcome prejudice when he made it to the WWE. The company continually buried Bryan on-air when he was in NXT, constantly making references to his 'internet reputation' and insinuating that he was too vanilla and small to make it in the company. In another era, WWE would have promoted Bryan's extensive international tours and accomplishments, but sadly in 2010 they seemed intent on tearing him down. That Bryan was a WWE 'rookie' while The Miz was his 'pro' seemed like someone's idea of a rib. Things went from bad to worse when Bryan was fired for choking ring announcer Justin Roberts and spitting on John Cena during the memorable NXT formation angle. He was brought back just a couple of months later, and set his sights on the US Championship. Bryan had his ups and downs in the company after his return. Being beaten by Sheamus in 18 seconds at WrestleMania had to be a low point. Forming the ridiculously entertaining Team Hell No with Kane must have been a highlight. Still, as good as Bryan was and as loud as the reactions he was getting were, he seemed destined to be a 'B+ player'. That was until the WWE Universe demanded that Bryan be placed into the main event of WrestleMania XXX. Bryan won the WWE Heavyweight Championship that night, realising a dream that not even he would have thought possible. Bryan has definitely overachieved in WWE but, sadly, it seems that his days at the very top are already over.
