Bryan Danielson recalls childhood wrestling show with Ultimate Warrior, sharing a vivid story from his youth that highlights his lasting admiration for the WWE Hall of Famer. The former WWE World Heavyweight Champion and renowned ring performer recently spoke about his first live wrestling event and the unexpected impression it had on his family.
Danielson’s Early Wrestling Inspiration and Memorable Tacoma Dome Event
Bryan Danielson, known for his time in WWE and AEW, has achieved acclaim as one of the top wrestlers in the industry. While away from active competition following his retirement at WrestleDream 2024—where he dropped the AEW World Championship to Jon Moxley—Danielson offered a personal reflection on what sparked his passion for wrestling.
Appearing on Kiro News Radio, Danielson shared that Ultimate Warrior, a WWE Hall of Famer recognized for his energy and charisma, was his childhood favorite. He recounted how the Warrior’s colorful persona and superheroic presence captivated him as a young fan.
“Growing up, my favorite was the Ultimate Warrior. You know, when you’re a kid, you like the colors. He looked like a superhero, he shook the ropes. The first wrestling show I ever went to see was at the Tacoma Dome. The main event was the Ultimate Warrior vs. Rick Rude, and the Ultimate Warrior did this move where he pulled his pants down. It was the first time my sister had ever seen an exposed male b*tt.” [H/T: Fightful]
The event took place at the Tacoma Dome, with the main match showcasing Ultimate Warrior facing Rick Rude. Danielson’s story included a comical yet unforgettable incident involving his sister, adding a personal touch to a formative wrestling memory.
Recent Retirement and Uncertain Return to Wrestling
Since Danielson’s announcement of stepping away from full-time wrestling, he has been largely absent from televised events. Fans and media have speculated on whether he might eventually re-enter the ring, and the question was raised during Danielson’s appearance on The Daly Migs Show.
Responding to these questions, Danielson explained that medical reasons are currently keeping him from wrestling and suggested his live appearances would be limited to in-person audiences, not television broadcasts.
“I don’t know, but right now, I’m not cleared to wrestle. Even if I wanted to, if I said, ‘Hey, I’m going to be there.’ I will be there in Kent. I will be there live in front of the people, but probably not on television. It’ll just be for the people there live.”
While Danielson’s status as a competitor remains in flux, fans continue to hope for a possible in-ring return. The legacy of his childhood hero, the Ultimate Warrior, and the lasting impression of his early wrestling experiences, remain influential in his storied career. As the wrestling community looks ahead, Danielson’s reflections and recent updates provide insight into his personal journey and the unpredictable nature of a wrestler’s path.
