Brock Lesnar and Daniel Bryan (now-AEW’s Bryan Danielson) are two of the greatest wrestlers in WWE history, with incredibly diverse skill sets that have produced countless memorable moments.
Footage has resurfaced of the epic nearfall in their only-ever match at Survivor Series 2018, where WWE Champion Bryan took on Universal Champion Lesnar in a David vs Goliath bout for the ages.
The match was seriously good, but for some reason, doesn't get brought up enough by fans when talking about quality WWE moments from the last few years.
Lesnar and Bryan are two of the best to ever do it
Despite a shift in his character since his WWE return in 2012, Brock has always been an unbelievable wrestler when motivated and in the ring with an opponent he values and respects, which is evident in this encounter with Bryan.
It is also a further example of the magic that can happen when Lesnar takes on smaller wrestlers. Brilliant matches with AJ Styles, Finn Balor and Rey Mysterio are a testament to this.
Bryan has long been regarded as one of the best technical wrestlers of all time, both for his work in and out of WWE. At the time of his match with Lesnar, he had just turned heel and was beginning to transition into the “New†Daniel Bryan, a pompous environmental advocate.
Video: Brock Lesnar's incredible near-fall at Survivor Series 2018
The exchange highlights several things, notably Bryan’s ability to play an incredible heel character, his offensive capabilities and Lesnar’s extremely underrated selling.
Lesnar looked legitimately rocked, which only heightened the excitement of the live audience and made the late kick-out even more meaningful. Credit must also be given to Michael Cole on commentary who sold the sequence expertly.
Fans have reacted to the clip going viral on social media this week, with widespread acclaim for Bryan’s brilliant character work and Lesnar’s all-time wrestling ability, as well as the match itself.
Brock Lesnar vs Daniel Bryan
Brock Lesnar vs Daniel Bryan
Brock Lesnar vs Daniel Bryan
Brock Lesnar vs Daniel Bryan
Brock Lesnar vs Daniel Bryan
Latest news on WWE’s plans for Brock Lesnar
Brock is set to appear at WWE Crown Jewel on November 5th, at least if reports are to be believed.
The Beast was last seen on WWE TV at Summerslam on July 30th, where he lost an epic Last Man Standing match to Roman Reigns, but recent reports from Ringside News indicate a return is imminent.
With Extreme Rules taking place this Saturday, expect more focus to be placed on the Saudi Arabian Premium Live Event, Lesnar’s return and opponent from next week’s Raw onwards.
For more news on what WWE is planning for Brock Lesnar as we head into 2023 and draw 2022 to a close, make sure you stay tuned to GiveMeSport.