Bryan Danielson: “Of course I want Okada to come to AEW”

By: R. Faliani

With all the rumors spreading and the questions arising, Bryan Danielson has given his thoughts on Kazuchika Okada’s departure from New Japan Pro Wrestling, and the American Dragon wants his rival to be a part of All Elite Wrestling, based on Tokyo Sports’ report.

【新日本】退団オカダ・カズチカ　AEWのブライアンが熱烈勧誘「WWEに行ったらNXTからに…」｜東スポWEB#njpw
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— 東スポ　プロレス格闘技担当 (@tospo_battle) February 12, 2024

Danielson and Okada went toe-to-toe this year at Wrestle Kingdom 18, and “The Rainmaker” beat “The American Dragon” to start his 2024, a match that no one expected would take place, especially not a second time, and at the Tokyo Dome.

Okada announced he would be leaving New Japan days after his match with Danielson, and people were expecting to see his next move. This came along with Will Ospreay’s departure and signing with AEW, and many were pointing out that the Jacksonville company could be Okada’s new home.

After Danielson’s match with Zack Sabre Jr. at New Beginning in Osaka, which saw him defeated by the former, Danielson went backstage and explained what is now the calm before the storm. As a former WWE Champion himself, Danielson knows a thing or two about their system, and what they want from their wrestlers. When asked about Okada’s departure, the American Dragon was clear in his thoughts:

“Of course I want him to come to AEW. Fans all over the world know how great Okada is. Both WWE and AEW are the biggest companies, but I hope he comes to AEW.”

“If he goes to WWE, they might have him start with NXT like Nakamura to adapt to the American style, but he doesn’t need to adapt. He’s one of the best wrestlers in the world right now, so he should just come to the United States without changing anything,”

Whether is AEW or WWE, “The Rainmaker” should stay the same and make new fans fall in love with whom Japanese fans got to enjoy for 13 years.

American companies have had a bad reputation for handling Japanese talent, but over time the course seems to have been correcte, with examples such as Asuka (Kana) or IYO SKY (Io Shirai). Wherever Okada falls, he will bring the rain and the money along with him.