Last month, Bryan Danielson stated that he might never wrestle in the NJPW G1 Climax tournament, calling it “irresponsible” at this stage of his career.
In a recent interview with Sports Illustrated, Danielson once again reiterated his doubts about his participation in the NJPW G1 Climax, noting that his physical condition as well as family commitments may refrain him from ever competing in the annual tournament.
You can check out some highlights from the interview below:
On a return to Japan: “I’d love to be able to go back to Japan, but I just don’t know if that’s a realistic possibility for me at this point in my career. I’ve always wanted to do the G1, but now that’s starting to fade. At this point in my life, it wouldn’t make sense.”
On watching NJPW: “I love watching Tanahashi matches. And Okada. Shingo, Ospreay, Zack Sabre Jr. When I watch, I realize how good they are. I loved watching Kenny’s matches when he was in New Japan. I thought I would need to go to Japan to wrestle the style I wanted to wrestle. Then AEW started, and I came here.”
On his busy schedule: “I have this whole full-time job in AEW, and I’m focused on everything I’m doing here. And as much as I like the idea of doing the G1, the whole idea of leaving my wife and kids for a month to go wrestle the hardest tournament in wrestling? At 42 while the injuries start to pile up? That’s one of those things that’s going to pass me by.”
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Bryan Danielson, also known as Daniel Bryan, recently expressed his doubts about participating in the NJPW G1 Climax tournament. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, he stated that his physical condition and family commitments may prevent him from ever competing in the prestigious annual tournament.
Danielson, who is currently signed with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), mentioned that he has always wanted to participate in the G1 Climax but now feels it may not be a realistic possibility at this stage of his career. He explained that with his full-time job in AEW and the injuries starting to pile up at the age of 42, leaving his wife and kids for a month to wrestle in the demanding tournament would not make sense.
Despite not being able to compete in the G1 Climax, Danielson expressed his admiration for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and its talented roster. He mentioned enjoying watching matches featuring wrestlers like Hiroshi Tanahashi, Kazuchika Okada, Shingo Takagi, Will Ospreay, and Zack Sabre Jr. He also praised Kenny Omega’s matches during his time in NJPW.
Danielson’s decision to prioritize his commitments in AEW and his personal life is understandable. As a professional wrestler, the toll on the body can be significant, and it is crucial for athletes to consider their long-term well-being. While fans may have hoped to see Danielson in the G1 Climax, they can still enjoy his performances in AEW and appreciate his respect for NJPW’s talent.
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In conclusion, Bryan Danielson’s recent comments about his doubts regarding participating in the NJPW G1 Climax tournament shed light on the challenges and considerations that professional wrestlers face in their careers. While fans may be disappointed, they can still enjoy Danielson’s contributions to the wrestling industry through his involvement in AEW.