10 Most Underrated Daniel Bryan Matches In WWE

It was with a heavy heart that Daniel Bryan announced his retirement from the ring on Feb 8th, explaining that night on WWE Raw that concussion-related issues forced him to step away from the squared circle. Fans were inevitably then quick to celebrate the career he had in WWE and in other organizations, acknowledging his most monumental matches and moments. As one of the world's greatest wrestlers for over a decade, Bryan was known for being nearly incapable of contesting a bad match. Even when in the ring with someone that wasn't as experienced such as Roman Reigns or The Miz, he still managed to have an above-average outing. That will be only a small part of the legacy he leaves behind in wrestling. In the six years he was with WWE, he took part in countless classic contests, most notably with the likes of John Cena, Triple H and Sheamus. But he also had his fair share of matches that were equally excellent but didn't see the light of day or aren't as fondly remembered thanks to their taking place on Raw, SmackDown, NXT or Superstars and not on pay-per-views. While treating yourself to a "best of Bryan" marathon on the WWE Network or on YouTube, be sure to check out these ten lesser-known bouts as well. You will be surprised by how little they are talked about given their great quality, storytelling and action.

10. Daniel Bryan vs. Chris Jericho (NXT; Feb. 23, 2010)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bE5uH1I4xbI It's no secret that Daniel Bryan wrestled his first ever televised WWE match against Chris Jericho on the inaugural episode of NXT. But it's often forgotten how good of a match they contested that historic night and what it would mean for Bryan's career in the years that followed. The whole competition concept of the show failed miserably, but the talent that came out of it was incredible, including Bryan. Despite being portrayed as a "rookie" on the program, he proved his worth to newer viewers in his impressive outing versus Jericho, who was fresh off winning the World Heavyweight Championship at the Elimination Chamber pay-per-view. Since NXT was a one hour program, they weren't given a ton of time, but the two submission specialists managed to steal the show, regardless. Bryan endured an ample amount of punishment throughout the bout and ultimately submitted to a devastating Liontamer. It's a shame they would clash only one other time three years later in singles competition.