Former AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland recently reflected on his memorable match against Bryan Danielson, known as the “American Dragon,” who retired from full-time wrestling in October 2024. Despite a past disagreement in 2023, Danielson has spoken highly of their bout at AEW All In London 2024, naming it among his favorite wrestling moments. Strickland expressed surprise that Danielson valued their encounter so much, especially considering Danielson’s legendary matches with other top wrestlers like Will Ospreay, Kenny Omega, and Randy Orton. He emphasized the importance of storytelling and authenticity in their match, striving to create a unique experience that stood out from Danielson’s other famous rivalries.
Strickland also highlighted that having Danielson’s family ringside added emotional depth to their match, giving Danielson an extra edge. Strickland explained how his character often uses personal relationships to gain psychological advantage—a tactic he learned from Shawn Michaels during his WWE days. The impact was such that Danielson found inspiration in Strickland’s approach, which contributed to the emotional culmination of their match.
In another candid moment, Strickland recalled how he left the ring without a win after their showdown at Wembley Stadium, where Danielson captured the AEW Men’s World Championship. He honored Danielson’s moment, acknowledging the veteran’s significant contributions to wrestling and his lasting influence on a generation of wrestlers. While some fans argue that Strickland deserves longer title reigns, he believes his time will come and that Danielson’s iconic moment should be celebrated as a milestone. Now a full-time AEW commentator, Danielson will get a front-row seat for Strickland’s eventual triumph as he returns to action following an injury.
Fan Take: This reflection underscores the deep respect between AEW’s top talents and highlights the emotional storytelling that defines the promotion. For AEW fans, it promises more unforgettable moments as Swerve Strickland builds on his legacy, potentially setting the stage for compelling rivalries and championship pursuits in the near future.
