37-Year-Old Former WWE Star’s Recent Release May Lead to Opportunities in AEW Thanks to Bryan Danielson’s Endorsement

Just days after expressing excitement at WWE’s $21.4 billion merger, part of the WWE Universe was crestfallen as the promotion announced job cuts. Not just people behind the scenes, but as many as 20 wrestlers were also released by the company. One among those released wrestlers, a 37-year-old talent, could ink a deal with Tony Khan’s AEW soon.

While nothing has been out of the horse’s mouth, speculations are rife. Generally, it’s the fans who indulge in such behavior, taking guesses of where someone would end next. But this time, a prominent pro wrestling journalist has made the predictions, citing four-time WWE Champion Daniel Bryan as a possible determinant.

Foreseeing former Daniel Bryan foe at AEW

Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter has been closely following sports entertainment for decades now. The 63-year-old recently picked up Mustafa Ali as the possible next big signing for Tony Khan.

Ali was among the batch of athletes who were released by the WWE this week. Now, Meltzer feels he could end up in AEW. To support his claim, the journalist said that Bryan’s affinity towards Ali could facilitate this. In case you’re wondering how; there are two reasons why this claim is more realistic than it sounds.

Bryan and Ali have a history in WWE. Before leaving the Stamford-based promotion in 2021, the former WWE World Heavyweight Champion had squared off with Ali in several matches as they feuded for months during the latter’s hunt for a world title between 2018 and 2019. As per reports, it was Bryan, who wanted to work with the leader of Retribution. Unfortunately, an injury to Ali derailed the push.

But how will Bryan benefit him in AEW? The former WWE superstar is a key figure in the promotion. He could use his influence to get Tony Khan to sign a deal with the free agent. Once the 90-day ‘no compete’ clause is over, Ali is legally cleared to appear for the company, provided he signs with them.

Read More: Breaking: Mustafa Ali Leaves WWE; Vince McMahon Fumbles the Bag with Star Announced For Title Match

But not just Mustafa Ali, AEW is likely to eye other wrestlers as well, who have recently become free agents.

Will a 43-year-old veteran join hands with former WWE peers?

One of the names in the released column that sent shockwaves around the pro wrestling world was Dolph Ziggler. Following his release, the 43-year-old pulled down the curtains on a partnership that lasted 19 years.

Ziggler, a two-time World Heavyweight Champion in the WWE, competed in over 1,500 matches during his nearly two-decade stint in the Endeavor-owned promotion. He is likely to be inducted into WWE’s prestigious Hall of Fame in the future. But before that, Ziggler, like many of his other WWE peers, could enthrall the AEW faithful.

While a family member has dropped hints of Ziggler joining the AEW, the former WWE superstar could also explore other avenues. Apart from being a talented in-ring performer, Ziggler also dabbled in comedy. Now that he’s free, could he devote more time to making people laugh?

Fans will have to wait until an update drops. Similarly, they’ll also keep track of Ali, who, having had no championship in the WWE, would likely want to better that aspect.

So, what’s your take on the issue? Do you think Mustafa Ali will join AEW as predicted by Meltzer?

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