Arizona Bulletin

Daniel Bryan, known for his intense technical wrestling and undeniable fan connection, has carved out a legendary career in professional wrestling. As the driving force behind the famous “Yes! Movement,” he became a fan favorite who defied the odds by winning multiple WWE titles, including headlining WrestleMania XXX with a victory that cemented his legacy. Despite a major injury forcing him into early retirement, Bryan made an incredible comeback, further solidifying his status as one of wrestling's greatest. Today, he continues to challenge himself, currently competing in AEW while remaining an iconic figure in WWE's history​.

Early Life

Daniel Bryan, whose real name is Bryan Lloyd Danielson, was born on May 22, 1981, in Aberdeen, Washington. He grew up in a modest household with his father, Donald, who worked as a logger, and his mother, Darlene, who was a therapist. Bryan also has an older sister named Billie Sue. His parents divorced when he was young, and this affected him emotionally, though he later channeled his energy into sports and athletics during his school years.

Bryan attended Aberdeen-Weatherwax High School, where he excelled in sports, particularly footballand amateur wrestling. After graduating in 1999, Bryan pursued his passion for wrestling and enrolled at Dean Malenko's wrestling school. Later, he continued his training at the Texas Wrestling Academy, run by Shawn Michaels, a legendary wrestler​.

Career

Daniel Bryan, is one of the most accomplished professional wrestlers. He started his wrestling career in 1999, training under renowned figures such as Dean Malenko and WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels at the Texas Wrestling Academy. Over the years, he gained popularity through his technical skillsand performances in several wrestling promotions, including WWE, Ring of Honor (ROH), and All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

Bryan first signed with WWE in 2000 but spent many years in the independent circuit, particularly making a name for himself in ROH, where he became the ROH World Champion. His WWE run began to truly take off in 2010, and he became known for his energetic "Yes! Movement," captivating fans worldwide. He won multiple championships during his WWE tenure, including four WWE Championships, a World Heavyweight Championship, and several tag team titles. He also became the 26th Triple Crown Champion and the 6th Grand Slam Champion in WWE history.

One of the defining moments of his career came at WrestleMania XXX in 2014, where Bryan won a match against Triple H and then went on to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship in the main event. This match is still remembered as one of the greatest moments in WWE due to the overwhelming fan support that pushed him into the spotlight.

In 2021, Bryan transitioned to AEW, where he continues to be an active wrestler under his real name, Bryan Danielson. His in-ring skills, unique submission maneuvers like the "Yes Lock" and "Knee Plus," and his ability to connect with fans have made him one of the most respected and loved wrestlers in the industry.

He has received numerous accolades, including Pro Wrestling Illustrated's Wrestler of the Year in 2013, and has also been inducted into the ROH Hall of Fame in 2022​.

Wife

Daniel Bryan, whose real name is Bryan Danielson, is married to Brie Bella, a fellow professional wrestler and star of the reality show Total Divas. They began dating in 2010 and got engaged in 2013. For the proposal, Daniel Bryan organized a special engagement dinner and flew Brie’s family to be part of the moment. They tied the knot on April 11, 2014, in a "country rustic" themed wedding held at L'Auberge Resort in Sedona, Arizona. The wedding was attended by close friends and family, including several WWE superstars, and was also featured on Total Divas​.

Children

Daniel Bryan (whose real name is Bryan Danielson) and his wife, Brie Bella, have two children. Their first child, a daughter named Birdie Joe Danielson, was born on May 9, 2017. Birdie is known for being a joyful and energetic part of the family​. Their second child, a son named Buddy Dessert Danielson, was born on August 1, 2020. Buddy, at a young age, has shown a close bond with his sister​.

Net Worth

As of 2024, has an estimated net worth of around $12 million. This wealth primarily comes from his successful wrestling career, both in WWE and All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Throughout his time in WWE, he became a four-time WWE Champion and held numerous other titles. His income is supplemented by television appearances, including reality shows like Total Divas and Total Bellas, which he appeared on alongside his wife, Brie Bella​.