Daniel Bryan (Screen-grabbed from WWE's Instagram account)
By Rafael Bandayrel
With less than three weeks away from WrestleMania 34, WWE gave fans one more reason to be excited for the mega event in New Orleans, Louisiana, as it was revealed that former WWE champion Daniel Bryan was cleared for in-ring action.
Bryan – who had to vacate his WWE title and his Intercontinental title afterwards – was forced to retire in February 2016 due to recurring concussion issues.
Saying goodbye to the ring was one of the hardest moments of my life. But thanks to the amazing people supporting me, I was able to keep fighting for my dream. This moment feels surreal and I'm glad to be able to talk to you all at the beginning of #SDLive tonight.
— Daniel Bryan (@WWEDanielBryan) March 20, 2018
Almost two years after his supposed retirement, the 36-year-old was cleared by three neurosurgeons, neurologists and concussion experts, including the well-known Dr. Robert Cantu. Most importantly, WWE medical director Dr. Joseph Maroon, who has the final say, also gave Bryan the green light.
“In the last two months, I asked WWE to re-look at my case. And they sent me to the best neurologists all over the country. And all of these neurologists, every specialist, every doctor I’ve seen has said the same thing and it is this: ‘You are cleared,’” Bryan said during his SmackDown Live segment.
Even before being allowed by WWE to return, Bryan has always teased coming out of retirement and hinted that he will sign with another promotion if he has to.
The on-screen general manager opened the latest episode of SmackDown Live to announce his return. Shortly after, he was attacked by Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn which suggested that the leader of the "Yes Movement" will be involved with the two heading into New Orleans.