WWE News: SmackDown Superstar returns from injury to face Daniel Bryan

What's the story?

WWE Champion Daniel Bryan has had a great run as a WWE Champion on SmackDown Live with his incredible heel character.

He's faced off against several Superstars on the blue brand, but one of the Superstars that stood out was Mustafa Ali, who, unfortunately, suffered an injury, which derailed his championship opportunity.

In case you didn't know...

Ali was supposed to face Bryan inside the Elimination Chamber with five other SmackDown Live Superstars, but an injury - a concussion - ruled him out of the match. He was eventually replaced by Kofi Kingston, who has been backed by the WWE Universe, as the WWE veteran goes in search for a first WWE Championship.

Mustafa Ali impressed many on SmackDown Live before his injury and was supposed to have a singles match against Bryan at the Fastlane PPV, as per various reports. Kingston was set to get a chance at the WWE Championship at Fastlane, but he was replaced by Kevin Owens by Vince McMahon this past week on SmackDown Live.

The heart of the matter

Saturday SmackDown live event in Minneapolis saw Daniel Bryan defend his WWE Championship against a returning Mustafa Ali. Ali ran him close, according to fans in the venue, but Bryan won and retained his title.

Daniel Bryan wins a very fun match against Mustapha Ali. pic.twitter.com/buArLce7Xa

— 20 Years of Nitro (@20YearsofNitro) March 3, 2019

Following the match, Rowan - Bryan's accomplice, and Bryan attack Ali, but Bryan accidentally hits Rowan following which Ali attacked Bryan.

What's next?

As mentioned previously, Bryan will face off against Kevin Owens at the Fastlane PPV for the WWE Championship, which will be held on 10th March, 2019. Fastlane is the last PPV before next month's Show of Shows, WrestleMania 35.