Christopher Daniels, a revered figure in professional wrestling, has likely wrestled his final match, a Texas Death Match against Hangman Page on AEW Collision, culminating a remarkable career spanning over three decades. Daniels, affectionately known as “The Fallen Angel,” began his journey in 1993 with Windy City Pro Wrestling and subsequently competed across a multitude of promotions globally, including ECW, WWC, EWF, NWA, and even brief stints in WWE and WCW. His extensive experience and adaptability solidified his status as a true journeyman and a respected veteran within the industry.
A pivotal moment in Daniels’ career came in 2000 when he triumphed in the inaugural King of the Indies tournament, solidifying his reputation as one of the most talented wrestlers on the independent circuit. He continued to participate in the prestigious tournament, facing future wrestling luminaries like Bryan Danielson and Low Ki. Daniels’ involvement in the early days of Ring of Honor (ROH) further cemented his legacy. He engaged in memorable feuds with iconic figures such as Danielson, Low Ki, AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, CM Punk, and Matt Sydal, showcasing his versatility and in-ring prowess.
Daniels’ career also intertwined with Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), where he made his debut in 2002, concurrently performing for both ROH and TNA. Throughout his tenure with these promotions, Daniels accumulated an impressive collection of championships, including the ROH World Championship, ROH World Television Championship, four ROH World Tag Team Championships, three TNA X Division Championships, and eight TNA tag team championships. This impressive record underscores his consistent excellence and ability to thrive in diverse wrestling environments.
Daniels’ contributions to professional wrestling extend beyond in-ring competition. Upon joining AEW as one of the first signees, he assumed the dual role of wrestler and Head of Talent Relations. This position allowed him to leverage his vast experience and knowledge to nurture and guide emerging talent. Matt Jackson, Executive Vice President of AEW and member of The Young Bucks, lauded Daniels as a “pioneer” of the contemporary wrestling style adopted by numerous companies, emphasizing his influence on the evolution of the sport. Jackson also highlighted Daniels’ backstage role as a producer, orchestrating countless matches and contributing significantly to the success of AEW programming.
Daniels’ career stands as a testament to the possibility of achieving success outside the confines of WWE. Despite never having a prolonged run with the wrestling giant, he carved his own path, leaving an indelible mark on the independent circuit and various other promotions. His influence on the wrestling landscape, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes, is undeniable. His dedication, adaptability, and passion for the sport have earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and fans alike.
Christopher Daniels’ retirement marks the end of an era in professional wrestling. He leaves behind a rich legacy, characterized by technical brilliance, captivating storytelling, and unwavering dedication. His contributions, both as a performer and as a mentor, have shaped the industry and inspired countless aspiring wrestlers. While his in-ring career may be over, his impact on the world of professional wrestling will continue to resonate for years to come. The wrestling community celebrates his extraordinary career and wishes him well in his future endeavors.
