12 Ups And 16 Downs For WWE In 2018

3. Bryan Reinvents Himself

This spring’s return of Daniel Bryan alone would have warranted a high placement on this list. But it’s what happened this fall that really defined Bryan’s 2018.

The leader of the Yes! Movement announced his in-ring return to great fanfare just before WrestleMania 34, where he had his first match in nearly three years. From there, the former SmackDown GM worked his way back into the fold, but something was different. Despite fans supporting him, the vigor wasn’t quite there. Bryan still was a favorite, but not the favorite.

And suddenly, WWE turned a corner with him. Bryan snapped during a WWE Championship match against AJ Styles, hit a low blow and proceeded to turn heel in winning the title. Since then, Bryan has further cemented his turn. He talks about the environment and consumerism and how “fickle” fans are.

It’s worked tremendously well, as it’s hard to cheer him, and so easy to boo D-Bry. Just like that, the “fickle” fans have an easy reason to jeer their former hero. And for someone who was universally beloved as Bryan, that’s a testament to him.