Bryan Danielson has offered an entertaining perspective on one of wrestling’s most unusual hypothetical questions: could any AEW wrestler defeat a bear? In a recent interview, Danielson shared his views on several stars within the company regarding their ability to prevail in such a wild matchup, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each competitor.
During the conversation, Danielson evaluated AEW performers including Swerve Strickland, Hangman Adam Page, Kyle Fletcher, Timeless Toni Storm, Kenny Omega, and Mercedes Mone. His insight was shaped by both their wrestling styles and perceived toughness, ultimately suggesting that only Toni Storm has a clear edge against the fearsome animal.
Breaking Down Each Competitor’s Battle Potential
On Swerve Strickland, Danielson noted that the outcome largely depends on the type of match.
“If it’s a straight match, the bear wins,”
he said.
“If it’s a gimmick match, like a Hardcore Match, I swear, Swerve is the craziest Hardcore Match wrestler that I’ve ever seen. So, he would staple that bear in the tongue or something like that, and so, yeah, it depends on the style of match. You get a straight old wrestling match? I bet the bear wins. You get any shenanigans or that sort of thing? Swerve wins.”
—Bryan Danielson, AEW wrestler
As for Hangman Adam Page, Danielson gave him slightly better odds over Swerve due to his experience with animals.
“I think Hangman has more experience with rounding up animals, so I think he does better in a straight match than Swerve.”
—Bryan Danielson, AEW wrestler
Kyle Fletcher did not receive much optimism from Danielson, who joked about his popularity but predicted a swift defeat by the bear.
“He gets destroyed by a bear. I’m sorry, Australia. If all of you Sydney people love Kyle Fletcher because he’s from Sydney and all that. He’s also a beautiful man. I heard the word on the street is that Taylor Swift is very interested in Kyle Fletcher, even though she just got engaged, but that said, Kyle Fletcher could not defeat a bear.”
—Bryan Danielson, AEW wrestler
Toni Storm, nicknamed “Timeless,” was singled out as the only wrestler who could realistically defeat a bear in a straight one-on-one contest.
“She could beat a bear. Straight one-on-one? She could beat a bear. No questions asked.”
—Bryan Danielson, AEW wrestler
Kenny Omega was rated poorly as well, largely due to his current physical condition. Danielson expressed concern even if Omega were healthy, citing his stomach issues.
“Given the state of Kenny Omega right now? Even [if he was healthy] still. I love Kenny Omega. Kenny is probably one of my favorite wrestlers to watch ever. I vote for the bear just because I can’t unthink of how bad his stomach is, and I just envisioned, as soon as you said it, a bear ripping open his stomach.”
—Bryan Danielson, AEW wrestler
Mercedes Mone was considered soundly defeated by the bear. Danielson joked briefly but chose to leave the statement clear.
“I think a bear defeats her soundly. I was going to make a joke about the Beast Mortos, but I’ll just leave it at that.”
—Bryan Danielson, AEW wrestler
Toni Storm’s Upcoming Title Defense Adds Context to Her Bear Battle Odds
While Toni Storm was praised for her hypothetical strength against a bear, she faces real challenges in the ring as AEW Women’s World Champion. Storm is set to defend her title at the upcoming All Out event against Kris Statlander, Jamie Hayter, and Thekla in what promises to be a competitive match. Her ability to maintain dominance in AEW’s women’s division may further solidify the toughness that earned Danielson’s vote in this unusual debate.
Reflections on Bryan Danielson’s WWE Creative Contributions
In addition to his thoughts on the bear battle scenario, Bryan Danielson discussed a notable idea from his tenure within WWE’s creative ranks. In 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Danielson contributed to creative discussions while sidelined from television appearances. One pitch involved the main roster introduction of Damian Priest through a segment involving Roman Reigns, aimed at quickly elevating Priest’s status beyond NXT.
This creative effort highlights Danielson’s desire to influence wrestling storytelling beyond his in-ring career. Despite the brief nature of that role, it demonstrated his continued commitment to the industry during a difficult period.
Danielson’s Transition from Wrestling to Commentary
Recent reports reveal that Bryan Danielson has chosen not to pursue neck surgery, delaying any potential return to active competition. Instead, he has embraced a new role as a commentator for AEW Dynamite, officially debuting on the broadcast on September 10 and previously contributing at the Forbidden Door event. This shift signifies a new chapter in his career while continuing to offer fans his wrestling insight.
Additional Wrestling News Highlights
Other news within the wrestling world includes an unfortunate health update for a former WWE Universal Champion, who is scheduled for surgery. The Rock has attracted attention for a remarkable physical transformation as he prepares for an upcoming film role, signaling another career milestone outside wrestling.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia aims to bring retired WWE stars back for WrestleMania 2027, promising lucrative earnings and memorable matches. AEW’s recent Dynamite edition featured Hangman Adam Page against Josh Alexander in a high-profile bout, alongside a major 10-man tag team main event that kept audiences engaged.
Several former WWE stars have opened up about their experiences working with Triple H, and one AEW star is nearing a return after a 20-month absence, despite medical advice to remain out. Additionally, MJF continues to expand his career with another significant movie role, and a former World Champion edges closer to an in-ring comeback in WWE.
Why Danielson’s Comments Matter in Wrestling Culture
Bryan Danielson’s commentary on AEW stars’ fictitious bear-fighting prowess offers more than lighthearted speculation; it reflects his deep knowledge of wrestler personas and physical attributes. His assessment blends humor with insight, providing fans a unique way to consider each performer’s toughness and creativity.
As Danielson transitions away from active wrestling to a commentary position, his perspectives will continue to shape fan conversations and offer an inside view of AEW’s talent. Meanwhile, the ongoing developments in wrestler health, career moves, and cross-promotional events keep the wrestling world dynamic and unpredictable.
