Daniel Bryan's Greatest WWE Matches: A Must-See List
Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive into the amazing career of one of the most beloved and talented wrestlers of all time: Daniel Bryan! From his underdog beginnings to becoming a world champion, Bryan's journey has been filled with unforgettable matches. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's explore some of Daniel Bryan's greatest WWE matches that every wrestling fan should see.
1. Daniel Bryan vs. John Cena (SummerSlam 2013)
Daniel Bryan's quest to prove himself reached a fever pitch at SummerSlam 2013 when he faced the face that runs the place, John Cena, for the WWE Championship. This match wasn't just about the title; it was about validation. Bryan, the indie darling turned WWE superstar, had to show the world that he belonged at the top. The match itself was a masterclass in storytelling and in-ring action. Cena, known for his power and resilience, met his match in Bryan's technical prowess and unwavering determination. Every near fall, every submission attempt, had the crowd on the edge of their seats. The intensity was palpable, and the energy in the arena was electric. What made this match even more special was the clean victory for Bryan. He didn't win with a fluke or a cheap shot; he beat Cena at his own game, proving that skill and heart could overcome size and strength. This victory was a monumental moment for Bryan, solidifying his place as a main event player and giving fans a reason to believe in the underdog.
But the story didn't end there. The aftermath of the match, with the infamous Triple H turn and the subsequent Randy Orton cash-in, added another layer of drama and intrigue. It set the stage for Bryan's even greater struggles and triumphs in the months to come. This match is more than just a great wrestling contest; it's a pivotal chapter in Daniel Bryan's legacy, a testament to his talent, and a reminder that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. For anyone who ever doubted Bryan's ability to reach the top, this match was the ultimate answer. It's a must-see for any wrestling fan, a reminder of why we love this sport, and a celebration of the magic that can happen when the right ingredients come together in the ring.
2. Daniel Bryan vs. Triple H (WrestleMania XXX)
Speaking of Daniel Bryan at WrestleMania XXX, the opening match against Triple H was nothing short of epic. After being constantly undermined by The Authority, Bryan had to defeat Triple H to earn a spot in the WWE World Heavyweight Championship main event later that night. The stakes were incredibly high, and the emotional investment from the fans was through the roof. This match was a perfect blend of technical wrestling and storytelling. Triple H, the veteran and master manipulator, used every trick in the book to try and put Bryan down. He targeted Bryan's injured arm, trying to weaken him before he could even make it to the main event. But Bryan, fueled by the energy of the crowd and his unwavering determination, fought through the pain. He endured Triple H's assaults, showcasing his resilience and never-say-die attitude. The near falls were heart-stopping, and the reversals were breathtaking. Every time Bryan seemed down and out, he found a way to fight back, spurred on by the roar of the WWE Universe. The match reached its climax when Bryan locked in the Yes! Lock, forcing Triple H to submit. The eruption of cheers that followed was deafening, a collective release of emotion from a crowd that had been yearning for this moment for months. Bryan had overcome the odds, defeated The Authority, and earned his place in the main event. This victory was more than just a win; it was a symbol of hope, a testament to the power of belief, and a moment that will forever be etched in the memories of wrestling fans. It set the stage for what would become one of the most iconic WrestleMania moments of all time, solidifying Daniel Bryan's legacy as a true underdog and a champion of the people.
3. Daniel Bryan vs. Randy Orton vs. Batista (WrestleMania XXX)
The WrestleMania XXX main event, featuring Daniel Bryan against Randy Orton and Batista for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, was the culmination of Bryan's incredible journey. After defeating Triple H earlier in the night, Bryan had to overcome two of WWE's biggest stars to achieve his ultimate goal. This match was an emotional roller coaster, filled with drama, suspense, and unforgettable moments. Bryan entered the match with an injured arm, the result of Triple H's relentless attacks earlier in the night. Orton and Batista immediately targeted the injury, trying to exploit Bryan's weakness. The match became a grueling test of endurance, as Bryan had to withstand the combined assaults of two powerful opponents. Despite the pain, Bryan refused to give up. He fought back with everything he had, using his technical skills and unwavering determination to stay in the match. The crowd was firmly behind him, chanting "Yes!" with every move he made. There were several near falls that had the crowd on the edge of their seats, each one more heart-stopping than the last. One of the most memorable moments of the match was when Batista and Orton teamed up to deliver a devastating RKO-Batista Bomb combination to Bryan through the announce table. It looked like Bryan's dream was over, but he somehow managed to make it back into the ring. In the end, Bryan locked in the Yes! Lock on Batista, forcing him to submit and winning the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. The arena erupted in cheers as Bryan celebrated his victory, confetti falling from the ceiling. It was a moment of pure joy and catharsis, a reward for Bryan's years of hard work and perseverance. This match was more than just a wrestling contest; it was a symbol of hope and inspiration, a reminder that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and the support of the fans. It cemented Daniel Bryan's legacy as one of the greatest underdogs in WWE history and a true champion of the people.
4. Daniel Bryan vs. CM Punk (Over the Limit 2012)
Daniel Bryan's battles with CM Punk were always special, and their match at Over the Limit 2012 for the WWE Championship was a clinic in wrestling. These two had incredible chemistry, and their contrasting styles made for a compelling clash. Punk, the "Best in the World," was known for his cocky attitude and his ability to back it up in the ring. Bryan, on the other hand, was the technical wizard with a relentless drive. This match was a back-and-forth affair, with both men trading holds, strikes, and near falls. The intensity was high, and the crowd was fully invested in the action. What made this match stand out was the psychological element. Bryan and Punk knew each other so well, and they used that knowledge to try and gain an advantage. They targeted each other's weaknesses, trying to wear each other down. The match was filled with innovative counters and reversals, showcasing the incredible skill of both men. There were several moments where it looked like one man was about to win, but the other would always find a way to fight back. The ending of the match was controversial, with Bryan appearing to win the title before the decision was reversed due to a technicality. Despite the unsatisfying finish, the match itself was a masterpiece, a testament to the talent and chemistry of Bryan and Punk. It's a must-see for any fan of technical wrestling and a reminder of why these two are considered among the best in the world. This match showcased not only their physical abilities but also their mental toughness, as they pushed each other to their limits in a battle for the WWE Championship. For those who appreciate the art of wrestling, this match is a true gem.
5. Daniel Bryan vs. Sheamus (Extreme Rules 2012)
Okay, so remember that infamous 18-second match at WrestleMania XXVIII? Well, Daniel Bryan and Sheamus got a chance to redeem themselves at Extreme Rules 2012 in a 2-out-of-3 falls match for the World Heavyweight Championship, and boy, did they deliver! After the disappointing WrestleMania encounter, both men had a lot to prove. Bryan wanted to show that he was a worthy champion, and Sheamus wanted to prove that he was more than just a lucky challenger. This match was a physical war, with both men throwing everything they had at each other. Sheamus used his power and strength to dominate early on, but Bryan relied on his technical skills and agility to stay in the match. The 2-out-of-3 falls stipulation added an extra layer of drama, as each fall meant the stakes were raised even higher. The crowd was hot for this match, and they were completely invested in the action. There were several brutal spots, including Sheamus hitting Bryan with a White Noise off the top rope. But Bryan refused to give up, and he kept fighting back, showing his incredible resilience. In the end, Sheamus emerged victorious, winning two falls to one and retaining the World Heavyweight Championship. But Bryan proved that he could hang with the best, and he earned the respect of the fans and his peers. This match was a redemption for both men, a chance to erase the memory of their WrestleMania encounter and show the world what they were truly capable of. It's a testament to their talent and their dedication to the sport. For those who doubted their abilities, this match was the ultimate answer.
Conclusion
Daniel Bryan's career is filled with amazing matches, and these are just a few of the highlights. His passion, skill, and dedication to the sport have made him a fan favorite and a true legend. So, if you're looking for some great wrestling to watch, be sure to check out these matches. You won't be disappointed! These matches represent some of Daniel Bryan's finest moments in WWE, showcasing his incredible talent, his unwavering determination, and his ability to connect with the WWE Universe. They are a testament to his legacy as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time, and they will continue to be enjoyed by fans for years to come. Whether you're a longtime wrestling fan or just discovering the sport, these matches are a must-see for anyone who appreciates the art of wrestling.
