10 Moments That Cemented Your Love For Professional Wrestling
6. Daniel Bryan Embraces Connor Michalek (WWE WrestleMania 30, 6 April 2014)
We touched upon professional wrestling being an escape route earlier, and for Connor 'The Crusher' Michalek, that statement couldn't have been more suitable.
He adored Daniel Bryan. The 'American Dragon' was an idol for him.
Michalek's story pulled at your heartstrings. He was only eight years old; he shouldn't have had to endure the life he did. With his life sadly nearing its end by the time of 2014's WrestleMania 30 pay-per-view, the Michaleks were invited to attend the event, where they would witness a joyous moment. Daniel Bryan, at the culmination of a long journey, lifted the WWE World Heavyweight Title from Randy Orton, submitting Batista in the process. The live audience erupted. This wasn't his first run as WWE's guy, but it was his first to be taken seriously, i.e last longer than a day.
Though Bryan would perform his traditional celebration with a title in each hand, he gave himself a mission; provide Connor with one more moment to cling on to.
The new WWE World Heavyweight Champion personally went out of his way to embrace Connor as part of his celebration.
His story had gone viral by this stage. Nearly everyone knew who he was, or at the very least, had an inkling as to what was happening. This was what professional wrestling was about. It connected fans to their inspirations. For Connor and his family, it came at just the right time.