Not much of an article per say, more an attempt to jumpstart a discussion. This isn't intended to diminish his accomplishments nor his credibility with the audience (which can't be diminished), just an observational enquiry if you will. Putting aside what he represents, which is obvious, what does he possess exactly which has got specific sections of the fan base so utterly convinced that he is the WWE's best commodity right now?
I've consistently liked the Daniel Bryan character, and the wrestlers ability to play up these factious characters has been tremendous. I still absolutely love his 2012-WHC run character, one of the only successful renditions of the generic "weasel heel" I can think of. His comedic performances with Kane last year were terrific, and now his capacity for playing the underdog has been as strong as ever. I many ways his character right now mirrors that of a genuine John Cena, with the philosophy and crowd support behind him Johnny boy can only dream of receiving. But........ (yes, this is where I become the bad guy) is he really good enough to justify this rocket ship/face of a company push some fans seem to want for him?
In my opinion, when you start entering into discussions about a companies poster boy you need to see them as the ideal reflection of what said company stands for - and unfortunately in Bryan's case his main attribute is the least important of WWE's priorities as a brand, the in-ring athleticism. No matter how hard he tries, he seems incapable of demonstrating passion with the microphone (his body language is too reserved). And he's not got a distinctive look now they've overplayed the beard - his 'you can't see me' saddlebag.
It strikes me that people are getting behind him to the extent they are because of what he represents rather than what he actually is. Which in effect makes the fans more short-sighted than WWE are?
Love to hear any counter arguments
Daniel Bryan
posted on 29/1/14
The majority of Wrestling fans are switched onto the fact that he is a solid performer with great ability who has worked his a$$ of to get to where he is.
Although there has been the worked story lines about him being a B+ and not a top guy, you get the feeling from the way he's been used over the last 6 months that its actually the way the WWE view him.
The fans dont like it and would rather see someone like Bryan get a push than some muscle head like Batista who is only in the ring for the pay check.
posted on 29/1/14
The majority of Wrestling fans are switched onto the fact that he is a solid performer with great ability who has worked his a$$ of to get to where he is.
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If the workhorse point is deemed a valid argument to constitute being positioned as the companies main man, then John Cena is where he is on merit. For all his shortcomings, no-one has broken their back for WWE more than him in his generation.
What is it that makes Bryan deserving of that kind of push as opposed to someone like Bray Wyatt for example?
posted on 30/1/14
Perhaps it's just because he's your true underdog. Gutsy, resilient, energetic, yet all the while looking more like someone who would go through your bins as opposed to beating 300lb men in a wrestling ring.
Like all good underdogs he possesses 'heart'. In any movie or soap opera, you're always likely to affiliate yourself with the guy who does everything right, yet never gets the breaks. 80% of films would never get made if this wasn't true.
posted on 30/1/14
I believe that contrary to popular belief - the WWE have been the brains behind DBs risein the industry.
From his American Dragon days, his partnership with Kane, his fling with AJ and now the beard gimmick - he has always been a point of interest. The fact that he is interesting on the mic is a bonus.
But the writers have always kept him relevant.
This holding back of DB is actually galvanising his fanbase so whilst everyone is criticising the WWE, perhaps we should be applauding them.
posted on 30/1/14
I think he is good enough. He's electric in the ring, ok on the mike and has the everyman/average joe/outsider look about him that appeals to wrestling fans. Catchy 'yes' gimmick or not the crowds are quite savvy and knowledgeable about who they like. They love this guy.
However if/when they do give him a run with the strap for 3-4 months it'll be fascinating to see if he still gets these reactions. I think he will and I think they have to run with it and find out
posted on 30/1/14
The nature of todays WWE fan is to big them up and then send them crashing once they're at the top.
Keep DB as he is
posted on 1/2/14
Bryan is now in a stage which could end badly for him.
Batista
Orton
Lesnar
Rollins
In a world where the boss likes big guys, Bryan is in murky waters. His appeal as stated is his average look, something that gives the viewer subjective familiarity. This lucidity, is what is keeping Bryan at the level he is.