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What's the story?
Well, it finally happened - he's back! Daniel Bryan endured two years of sitting on the sidelines medically disqualified from any physical activity within WWE before finally being cleared to make his return before this week's SmackDown Live.
As more details are becoming clear around Daniel Bryan's return, WWE have released some unseen footage where Daniel Bryan speaks candidly about his journey - even confirming when WWE finally gave him the decision that he was cleared.
In case you didn't know...
WWE cleared Daniel Bryan to return to in-ring competition on Tuesday, hours before SmackDown Live. Daniel Bryan kicked off the show with an emotional speech that came full circle from his retirement speech on Raw in early 2016.
You can see Daniel Bryan's comeback speech below.
The heart of the matter
In exclusive footage released by WWE.com of Daniel Bryan speaking before addressing the WWE Universe on SmackDown Live, the former WWE Champion reveals that he was only finally cleared by WWE the previous night.
Bryan also speaks more candidly about Brie Bella's worries, but her incredible support - as he emotionally noted on SmackDown - and wanting to be an example to his daughter to fight for what you want and believe in.
Daniel Bryan said he isn't nervous as he has faith in his skill and the skill of those around him.
The former WWE Champion said wrestling always managed to calm him, and he hopes that doesn't change when he makes his comeback.
What's next?
Well, this week's SmackDown saw Daniel Bryan fire Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn, and subsequently, take his first bump in a WWE ring in two years.
Bryan looked like he hadn't missed a beat when he hit some corner kicks, Yes kicks and a snap German suplex - before Kevin Owens powerbombed the General Manager on the apron to close out the show.
What will happen next week? It's now a must-watch episode on the road to WrestleMania.
Author's take
There's not much to say about this aside from it's absolutely incredible. I was astounded that Daniel Bryan claimed he was only officially cleared less than 24 hours before the announcement was made, but we know things can change fast in wrestling.
Either way, it's so good to have Bryan back and I can't wait to see his return to the ring!
