WWE: 5 possible opponents for Daniel Bryan at WrestleMania 36

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4. Keith Lee

What, you thought I was going to say The Miz? That’s too obvious.

Also, I can hear you saying, “Wait, what? Keith Lee is in NXT and not on SmackDown.” True. That didn’t stop Charlotte Flair from attacking Rhea Ripley after Ripley retained her championship against Bianca Belair at Takeover: Portland. Well…how do we realistically get there?

First, only have Lee appear on Wednesday’s show through a prerecorded backstage interview (even though he says he wants to defend every night). He simply has to say something like, “I am your North American Champion, and I eagerly await my next challenger, should one appear, for my time in Tampa. They, like those before, will find out just how ‘Limitless’ I am.” (I know, but they’re going to weave in his moniker somehow.)

Second, on SmackDown Friday night, Bryan could give an interview or in-ring promo where he says, “You know, I don’t have a match at WrestleMania. I want a match at WrestleMania. I hear there’s a certain ‘moment-maker’ looking for a challenger. Well guess what: Keith Lee, I am that challenger! I’ll see you next Wednesday!”

Boom. You planted the seed with Lee’s promo and saw it blossom with Bryan’s response. Dueling promos at Full Sail helps build the hype. A couple of exquisitely-produced video packages (because they usually are) highlighting Lee for the larger audiences on USA and FOX and Bryan’s resiliency against bigger opponents (like Lesnar) maintain that buzz as fans anticipate what should be a superb match.

The in-ring story is simple enough, but with these two, executed well. Like with Sheamus, Bryan has a size disadvantage, but this one more pronounced. Lee can also do many things in the ring that belies his size.

Could Bryan wrap the LaBell Lock around the massive shoulder and neck of Lee? Even if he did, would Lee’s strength render the maneuver moot? How would Bryan win if he did? If Lee wins, think of the boost he would receive as both a performer and a champion.

Bryan putting over Lee is also believable considering Bryan’s history of putting people over at his request (see: Kofi Kingston last year).

Plus, who doesn’t want to see how far Lee would Pounce Bryan as a counter to the Busaiku Knee?