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#5 Daniel Bryan
Not even a three year hiatus from professional wrestling was enough to keep Daniel Bryan off this list. Bryan didn't spend much time in NXT, but he was there for the inaugural episode where he lost to the World Champion Chris Jericho. That was also the night his long storied rivalry with The Miz began, when his former mentor attacked him after the match.
Bryan never won a match in NXT and soon after was released from the company for being too violent on TV. WWE would apologize for letting Bryan go, and ultimately brought him back. He would go on to defeat The Miz at Night of Champions 2010 to claim his first singles title, the United States Championship.
Over the years Bryan would build an amazing connection with the audience. It was that connection that helped spark the "Yes Movement" and catapult him into the Main Event of WrestleMania 30. His victory over Randy Orton and Batista created one of the most iconic moments in WWE history, one that still gives this writer goosebumps.
Career highlights:
- 4X WWE Champion
- World Heavyweight Champion
- Intercontinental Champion
- United States Champion
- WWE Tag Team Champion
- SmackDown Tag Team Champion
- Money in the Bank Winner
At the height of the "Yes Movement" Bryan was one of the most popular stars in WWE history. On the same level as 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin or The Rock. Miraculously Bryan was able to return to the company three years after having to retire due to concussion issues. He has a chance to win his first Universal Championship this Sunday at Survivor Series.
