Daniel Bryan: One Night in New Orleans

(Photo credit: WWE)

Wrestling (well, let's just say it now) legend Daniel Bryan officially announced his retirement this past Monday. And as we continue to reflect on a remarkable career, let's take a quick look back at Bryan's finest moment. 

Memories were abound down in New Orleans on April 6, 2014. The 30th anniversary of WrestleMania, however, is largely remembered for Daniel Bryan's improbable WWE World Heavyweight Championship triumph. 

We, of course, remember how special the quest and eventual title victory was. From the buildup of the "Yes! Movement" to wins over three-fourths of Evolution to the people basking in the purple and gold confetti raining down from the Superdome--the night was nothing short of unforgettable for wrestling fans.

But what really made the performance so special, so outstanding and an all-time scene in the history of sports entertainment were the events surrounding Daniel Bryan that evening.

Hulk Hogan, Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock--arguably the three most popular wrestlers of all-time--kicked off the show with a flawless opening. And yup, even Hogan's Silverdome/Superdome mixup ended up being a perfect talking point for the electrifying, glass-shattering, star-spangled awesome promo. 

The Ultimate Warrior finally claimed his long awaited and much deserved spot in the Hall of Fame. After years of disconnect with the company, Warrior made his anticipated return into the warm and adoring arms of the WWE Universe. Simply inspiring.

And oh yeah, Undertaker's illustrious 21-0 WrestleMania record was tarnished by the" Beast Incarnate," Brock Lesnar. Decades of dominance by one of the true icons of the business was derailed by an absolute force in shocking and disheartening fashion.

Additionally, we also laid witness to Cesaro body-slamming a 500-pounder over the top rope, a glance into the future with The Shield running roughshod through Kane and the Outlaws and the returns of Triple H and Batista to the grandest stage.

All that emotion, all that star power, all those groundbreaking events--trumped by the heroics of Daniel Bryan. 

Brian Danielson, for so many reasons, is a man of the people. He's relatable, he's entertaining and he's so much for so many admirers. Personally, I was never the biggest fan. I certainly enjoyed his work and respect the hell out of him for sacrificing his wellbeing for our entertainment.

Everyone has their favorite Daniel Bryan moment. Mine was that one night in New Orleans. It was that one night he stole the show from my favorites, the guys I grew up watching--Rocky, Austin, Taker, Hunter, Brock. 

In an industry so dominated by the freakishly athletic, musclebound big men, who would have known a 5'10" firecracker would outshine them all?