WWE Extreme Rules 2012 Results: WWE Smart to Give Daniel Bryan Solid Showing

After the humiliating loss Daniel Bryan suffered at WrestleMania XVIII, it was good to see him show off his talent. He didn't regain the World Heavyweight Championship, but he did gain some respect.

The kiss and kick ending at WrestleMania left some feeling empty. But the Extreme Rules rematch with Sheamus on Sunday in Chicago, gave most a healthy and satisfying dose of what Bryan can do.

His best two-out-of-three-falls match with Sheamus was outstanding. It pulled off a rare feat: It actually made both wrestlers look good.

Even the first fall going to Sheamus via disqualification was well placed. As it stands, each man only pinned or made the other submit once in the match.

Bryan can use that as a springboard to continue the feud. He could argue that the disqualification was bogus or a formality. With his solid showing, fans will buy it.

Bryan proved a few things at the event. But most of all, he proved he is a formidable opponent for the Great White. 

Bryan's popularity is on the rise as much as any superstar. He is indeed a main-event talent, and it's only a matter of time before he takes the next step in his career.

This is an excellent feud for him, and his legion of fans have to be satisfied—even though he didn't actually regain the title.

In maintaining the belt, Sheamus adds another victory, and because of how popular Bryan has become, the win is even bigger for Sheamus.

You can't please everyone, but this result should have made fans of both stars happy.

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