Daniel Bryan Blu-Ray Review: 14 Interesting Observations
11. Bryan Was Not A Fan Of The NXT Concept
The WWE Universe's first glimpse of the man who would go on to become one of the most popular wrestlers of all-time...was on the first season of NXT, which at the time was an unholy mix of a wrestling show and a 'reality' show. 8 WWE Pro's were paired with 8 Rookie's, and they were tasked with guiding them through various obstacles on their way to winning a WWE contract.
Bryan was paired with The Miz, which set the internet on fire, as Miz had been a wrestler for significantly less time than Bryan and yet was deemed his 'pro'. In reality, WWE cannily put them together as they knew that each man could help the other improve their weaknesses; Bryan could learn how to be a WWE Superstar and develop 'charisma', and Miz could pick up wrestling tips.
However, Bryan felt that the NXT set-up made all the rookie's look like 'assholes', as they were forced into goofy stunts like carrying beer kegs or juggling in the ring, and it's hard to disagree with him.
He does credit his match on NXT with Chris Jericho as being a highlight, though. The story goes that Jericho came back through the curtain and told Vince McMahon that Bryan was going to be a star, to which Vince replied 'Him?! He doesn't even eat meat!'. Classic McMahon!