WWE champion Daniel Bryan retires due to concussion

Former WWE champion Daniel Bryan, who has not competed since suffering a concussion in April, is retiring from wrestling.

Former WWE champion Daniel Bryan, who has not competed since suffering a concussion in April, is retiring from wrestling, he announced Monday.

Bryan was reportedly cleared by doctors at UCLA last month to return to the ring but hadn’t been cleared by WWE’s doctors. A doctor in Arizona gave Bryan the OK to return to the ring back in August but WWE has still kept him sidelined. He has also dealt with neck injuries during his wrestling career.

Bryan reportedly attempted to resign from WWE (perhaps to pursue wrestling with another promotion) but WWE blocked his request to terminate his contract. 

Due to medical reasons, effective immediately, I am announcing my retirement. Tonight on Raw, I'll have a chance to elaborate. #gratitude

— Bryan Danielson (@bryandanielson) February 8, 2016

Bryan, 34, was born Bryan Lloyd Danielson. He has been a professional wrestler since 1999. His signature “Yes!” chant has crossed over into numerous other sports, perhaps most notably as the post-goal celebration of New York Islanders fans. 

- Dan Gartland