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WWE: 5 current wrestlers deserving of a “Biography” episode

By Bruce Lee Hazelwood

Apr 11, 2021; Tampa, Florida, USA; Roman Reigns (black pants) and Daniel Bryan (green trunks) and Edge (white pants) during their Universal Championship match at WrestleMania 37 at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 11, 2021; Tampa, Florida, USA; Roman Reigns (black pants) and Daniel Bryan (green trunks) and Edge (white pants) during their Universal Championship match at WrestleMania 37 at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
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5) Daniel Bryan

Look, this isn’t just because Bryan is a fellow Washingtonian, hailing from Aberdeen while I grew up in Tacoma/Puyallup and currently live in Seattle.

(It certainly doesn’t hurt, though!)

Very few wrestlers in WWF/WWE during my nearly 33 years of life have amassed such a following and investment from fans than Bryan. The “Occupy Raw” segment is the epitome of that.

His connection with fans literally forced WWE to change their main event plans for WrestleMania XXX, and his victory is still one the fondest memories from WWE’s biggest show.

We all know what happened shortly thereafter: concussion issues caught up to him and forced him to retire.

He dabbled in commentary for the Cruiserweight Classic and as General Manager of Smackdown. He then worked to be cleared and returned in 2018. He became WWE Champion again and has continued to wrestle, though his contract with WWE reportedly expired sometime around or after his match with Roman Reigns on Smackdown on Apr. 30.

Outside of the ring, he married fellow wrestler Brie Bella and had two children. He’s a proponent of clean living (his “Planet’s Champion” was really an extension of himself).

Bryan’s ability to connect with fans will surely come through the camera if an episode happens as he talks viewers through his thoughts when he had to retire, the mental anguish he experienced from the decision, the support of Bella, becoming a father, being cleared, taking that first bump, becoming WWE Champion again, and working with the next generation of wrestlers.

It would be a boon if WWE and A&E show earlier footage of Bryan during his Bryan Danielson days in Ring of Honor and around the world. It could really help set the stage as to why so many fans have such an attachment to Bryan/Danielson.

Further, think of what those closest to Bryan and his situation, such as Bella, could add through their appearance. What about those in management like Vince McMahon, Triple H, and others?

Fellow wrestlers could really impart to viewers just how talented and respected Bryan is amongst his peers, and how he truly is a generational talent.

All the makings for a gripping documentary are there.

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