What Bryan Danielson's Relationship With Vince McMahon Was REALLY Like

News on the former Daniel Bryan's relationship with the WWE Chairman before leaving for AEW.

by Andy H Murray
Bryan Danielson Vince McMahon
AEW/WWE

Bryan Danielson might not work for Vince McMahon anymore, but he has immense respect for the WWE Chairman and CEO.

Speaking on the 12 September episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer stated that Danielson holds McMahon in such high esteem that he used to write down everything he learned from him.

This is in line with Danielson's own comments on Vince during the post-All Out 2021 media scrum last weekend. The 40-year-old spoke highly of his former place of work, having agonised over the decision to leave for AEW, and said the following on McMahon specifically (h/t Fightful):-

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"WWE was so gracious with me as far as the offer that they gave me. They were gonna let me go do some other stuff on the outside, but, I hate to say this, Vince sometimes - he and I have a great relationship. I love him, I do. Sometimes he's overprotective of me."

Danielson debuted for AEW at the end of All Out 2021, confronting The Elite and fellow newcomer Adam Cole alongside Christian Cage and Jurassic Express. His expected appearance helped contribute towards what will soon be announced as the most successful pay-per-view in AEW history.

The ability to work for New Japan Pro Wrestling and his belief that joining AEW would be better for the wrestling business as a whole reportedly contributed to Danielson's decision to sign there over re-signing with WWE, having departed McMahon's group in May.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.