Bryan Danielson made a welcome return to AEW television at All In, appearing during the Buy-In portion of the huge event.
Danielson had been absent from AEW programming for several months, but returned to the commentary desk ahead of the TBS Championship match between Maya World and Persephone.
His appearance marked the first time Danielson had worked commentary for AEW since April 2026.
Following his retirement from full-time in-ring competition in 2024, Danielson moved into a commentary role with AEW. However, his appearances became less frequent as he continued to deal with the physical toll of his lengthy wrestling career.
AEW President Tony Khan addressed Danielson's absence during an appearance on In The Weeds in July, explaining that the former World Champion had been given time away from travelling so he could recover and spend more time with his family.
“I think Bryan’s incredible at everything he does. Bryan’s beat up and I’ve been giving him time to rest and recover. I would love to have Bryan (Danielson) out there all the time, but he’s been home and with his family and he’s doing very well.”
Khan explained that even working commentary can be physically demanding for Danielson because of the injuries he has accumulated throughout his career.
“But, it’s a lot for Bryan being on the road and a lot of the utility of Bryan stepping away from the ring and resting is him being home with his family and recovering, and trying to be off the road. So, I’ve been trying to take the pressure of the road off Bryan but when he’s able to travel more and be pain-free, I think it’ll be great.”
Khan added that seemingly simple aspects of commentary, including sitting for extended periods and watching monitors, can be difficult for Danielson.
“I also think it’s even just sitting in the chair, and moving his head around in the monitor and stuff, it’s hard. It’s harder than people understand with the injuries he’s had. People don’t realize the toll that this business and this sport has taken on this man.”
Khan finished by making it clear that AEW's priority is not to put unnecessary physical pressure on Danielson after everything he has already given to the company.
“He’s done so much for all of us, so, it means the world to have him in AEW and be part of this family but also, that means now he’s done everything he can in the ring for AEW at this point and I don’t need to drag him out and beat him up every week even more when he’s hurting.”
Danielson's return at All In was therefore a welcome sight for fans, with the former AEW World Champion once again lending his experience and insight to the commentary team.
The American Dragon @BryanDanielson returns to Wembley Stadium to join the commentary desk!
, All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 30, 2026
Watch the #AEWAllIn London Buy In LIVE pic.twitter.com/sT8MLvsuKO
Would you like to see Bryan Danielson become a regular part of AEW commentary again, or should his appearances remain reserved for special occasions?
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