Unveiling New Horizons: Charting the Path Forward
Navigating Uncharted Waters
In recent months, Danhausen's return to the wrestling scene has been met with a mix of anticipation and speculation. Following his surprise appearance at the Hammerstein Ballroom during an Atlantis Jr. versus Mansoor match, fans are eager to see what lies ahead. Despite being away from AEW/ROH programming for much of 2024, Danhausen maintained a steady schedule of indie matches and convention appearances, all approved by AEW management.
This period off television allowed Danhausen to refine his character and explore new dimensions of his persona. While reflecting on this time, he emphasized the importance of patience and strategic planning. "It's about seeing where things go from here," Danhausen remarked, underscoring the ongoing discussions with AEW regarding his future direction. His desire to be featured more prominently on television stems from a belief that his unique character resonates strongly with audiences, both on and off-screen.
A Market Proven Character
Danhausen's marketability is undeniably strong, as evidenced by his consistent presence on merchandise sales charts. Over the past four years, he has consistently ranked among the top sellers, often securing a spot within the top three. This success is not just a testament to his popularity but also a reflection of the broad appeal his character holds. "Whether I'm on TV or not, I've always been in the top three," Danhausen noted, highlighting the enduring connection fans have with his brand.
He believes that this market performance should translate into increased television exposure. "I think it's important for AEW to showcase different types of performers," Danhausen explained. "Wrestling is a variety show, and every performer brings something unique to the table. If someone tunes in because they like what I do, they might discover other talents like Will Ospreay or Powerhouse Hobbs."
Visionary Collaborations
When asked about his dream matchups, Danhausen's enthusiasm was palpable. He envisions teaming up with The Outrunners, The Gunns, and “Timeless” Toni Storm, while also expressing interest in facing or partnering with Brody King. Other potential opponents include PAC, Claudio Castagnoli, and Bullet Club Gold. These collaborations would not only highlight his versatility but also introduce him to broader audiences.
One collaboration that particularly resonates with Danhausen is the idea of teaming with Sting and Darby Allin. Although this matchup never materialized due to Sting's retirement, Danhausen fondly recalls a near-miss opportunity. "It almost happened," he reminisced, referring to a proposed match involving Sting, Allin, and himself against The Gunn Club and Max Caster. This scenario underscores his commitment to creating memorable moments within the ring.
Recovering and Rebuilding
Since joining AEW in January 2022, Danhausen has faced challenges, including a significant injury that kept him out of action for several months in 2023. After tearing his pec at Revolution, he focused on recovery and rebuilding his strength. This experience has only deepened his resolve to make a lasting impact in the wrestling world.
"Every setback is an opportunity to grow," Danhausen reflected. "This time away has given me a fresh perspective and renewed determination. I’m ready to bring my best to the ring and prove what I can do." His resilience and dedication are evident in his approach to both personal and professional challenges.