Entertainment
AEW’s Bryan Danielson says WWE boss Vince McMahon gave him ‘the best hug’ of his life
The pair were close during Bryan’s time with the company (Picture: WWE)
Bryan Danielson has thanked WWE ‘big man’ Vince McMahon as his All Elite Wrestling debut approaches.
The former world champion, who left the wrestling giant in May this year after a successful run as Daniel Bryan, is set to face Kenny Omega on Wednesday night’s Grand Slam episode of AEW Dynamite in his first match for the rival promotion and he’s offered some kind words to his previous boss.
In a column for The Players’ Tribune, Danielson wrote: ‘Thank you to the Big Man, who I know hates to be acknowledged.
‘I won’t say much, but thank you for the conversations, the life lessons (about both what to do and what not to do), and the best hug I’ve ever received. I wish more people could see you how I see you.’
The heartfelt words came as the American Dragon penned an open letter revealing how grateful he is for his time in WWE, the company’s fans and the experiences he had there as he showed that there’s certainly no hard feelings on his part after his big move.
‘Thank you to the incredible superstars with whom I’ve shared both the ring and the road. For Savate-Kick Saturdays and locally roasted coffee. For being family when we’re away from family,’ he added.
‘For making me look good when I didn’t feel good. For deep conversations and pointless debates. For making me laugh — both in the best of times, and the worst. For all the small things that make life as a wrestler just a little bit more fun.’
Danielson, whose wife Brie Bella was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame earlier this year alongside her twin sister Nikki, reflected on his retirement and sensational in-ring return, as well as the lifechanging impact of his time there.
He continued: ‘I loved my time in WWE. Needless to say, it changed my life. I met my wife, had unbelievable experiences and made great friends. Some of you, I may see again…. and I hope that I do.
‘But these last two years have taught us not to take that for granted. So I just wanted to tell you all how much you’ve meant to me.
More: US TV news
‘I’m grateful that you allowed me into your lives, and that you came into mine. I’ll cherish these memories forever.’
The wrestling star also admitted he hopes some fans will follow him from WWE to AEW and continue to see him work, but he appreciates some won’t want to tune in.
‘I hope you will continue to follow me in AEW, but I completely understand if you don’t,’ he said. ‘You’ve given me more than enough — more than I could ever repay. Thank you for all of it.’
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
MORE : AEW Dynamite results, grades: Team Taz destroys CM Punk and Bryan Danielson challenges Kenny Omega
