Bryan Danielson, a prominent figure in professional wrestling and a star in AEW, spoke with Josh Mansour about the potential for collaboration between AEW and WWE. Addressing the prospects of such a partnership, Danielson acknowledged that the changing landscape of wrestling makes collaboration a possibility, though several challenges remain.
Obstacles and Opportunities for Collaboration
Danielson pointed out that AEW’s owner, Tony Khan, has a strong willingness to cooperate. However, he contrasted this with WWE’s current approach, which seems more focused on competition than partnership. Regarding WWE’s leadership, Danielson explained,
“It’d be interesting. Tony Khan has a collaborative mindset. Where we’re at right now, it seems more like WWE is trying to put us out of business rather than wanting to go into business. The landscape of wrestling has changed so much in the last six or seven years that I would never say never. I don’t know exactly how it plays out as far as who is on top of who in the corporate structure of WWE, but if Nick Khan, who is a great businessman and has brokered these incredible deals for WWE, if he thought it was best for WWE to do some sort of collaboration with AEW, say once a year, and it was great for wrestling fans and wrestlers….there would be some hurdles there as far as the relationship goes because there have been some nasty things said on both sides. You have to overcome those things. If you could get there, it would be a huge win for wrestling fans.”
Bridging Divides Despite Lingering Tensions
When asked about the likelihood of a collaboration happening soon, Danielson was skeptical yet hopeful. He explained the necessity of repairing damaged relationships, stating,
“Do I see that happening in the next year? [indicates no and laughs]. A lot of bridges have been burned, and a lot of bridges need to be mended for that to happen. You have people within AEW and WWE who genuinely love each other as people. I have friends there who I will love until the day I die. It’s not just wrestlers. It’s people in management. Likewise, there are people in WWE who love people in AEW. Not just the wrestlers. Love some of the people in leadership roles in AEW. There is enough love there that something could happen, but there’s also enough bad blood to where it’s like [shakes head and laughs].”
Significance of a Potential Partnership
Such a collaboration between AEW and WWE could mark a significant shift in professional wrestling, presenting a rare opportunity to unite two of the biggest entities in the sport for the benefit of fans and performers alike. While the current rivalry creates tension, Danielson’s comments highlight that mutual respect and friendships persist behind the scenes. If these challenges were overcome, fans might see crossover events that elevate wrestling’s visibility and appeal in the future.
