Daniel Bryan Likely out for Royal Rumble, Should Be Back for WrestleMania

It was reported on Wrestling Observer Radio (h/t Marc Middleton of WrestlingInc) today that WWE Superstar, former world heavyweight champion and beloved underdog Daniel Bryan may not be back in time for the Royal Rumble as anticipated.

Bryan had been expected back for the January pay-per-view, but due to slow progress in his rehabilitation, this may be put on hold.

Bryan underwent neck surgery in May following the discovery of an injury caused by years of wear and tear. After the surgery, he struggled to regain strength in his arm. A second surgery was considered but delayed because doctors thought it may not be necessary. According to the report on Wrestling Observer Radio, Bryan wanted the surgery anyway to accelerate the process, but it did not occur. 

It's still expected that Bryan will be back in time for WrestleMania 31. 

What started as the greatest year of Bryan's wrestling career has turned into a nightmare. The WWE Universe rebelled at the WWE's attempt to stifle Bryan's meteoric rise, booing the big return of Batista and chanting Bryan's name through main event segments he wasn't included in.

Finally, the WWE acceded to the fans and pushed Bryan as the featured draw of WrestleMania 30, putting him over Triple H in an outstanding opening match of the show and closing with his triumphant title victory against Batista and Randy Orton. 

It all began to unwind from there. Bryan's father passed away just a few weeks later, and he learned of the neck injury in early May. Bryan was forced to vacate the championship and has appeared sporadically on WWE broadcasts since.

Bryan would have made a great addition to the Royal Rumble to kick off the Road to WrestleMania. By putting him in the Rumble match, he could be a featured attraction while still protecting him from injury as he works his way back to ring shape. Bryan's return and journey to regain the championship that he never lost would be a great focal point of the build to the biggest show of the year.

Unfortunately, we may never see the same Daniel Bryan again. This long, slow rehabilitation process has to concern WWE brass and fans alike. Usually a durable, reliable worker, Bryan may not be able to maintain the same schedule or hard-hitting style that we as fans fell in love with. 

Bryan is one of the most talented in-ring performers of his generation and perhaps any other. His ability to engage a crowd and win over a worldwide audience despite poor booking and an unconventional look speak volumes to his natural charisma and talent. 

As a fan of Bryan and proud owner of a "Respect the Beard" T-shirt, I wish Bryan the best of luck on his recovery, and we hope to see him back in a WWE ring sooner than later.