Mark Henry Admits He “Lied” to WWE — And It Changed Bryan Danielson’s Life Forever
Sometimes, one small lie can create a wrestling legend. WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry has revealed a fascinating behind-the-scenes story about how he helped Bryan Danielson land his WWE contract — even if it meant bending the truth to get the company’s attention.
Before signing with WWE in 2009, Bryan Danielson was already a standout on the independent wrestling circuit, earning praise for his elite in-ring skills. But despite his growing reputation, his size nearly kept him from getting a shot in WWE — a company that, at the time, strongly favored bigger, heavier athletes.
That’s where Mark Henry stepped in.
“Y’all Need to Get This Dude”
Speaking on The Undertaker’s Six Feet Under Podcast, Henry recalled spotting Danielson on television and instantly recognizing something special.
“I didn’t train Bryan Danielson. I just saw Bryan on TV and said, ‘Hey, y’all need to get this dude,’” Henry said. “I saw a match he had and I was like, ‘This dude is as good as people we’ve got in WWE.’”
Henry was convinced Danielson belonged on the biggest stage — but he also knew WWE officials might dismiss him based on size alone.
So, he got creative.
The Little White Lie That Paid Off
At the time, WWE preferred wrestlers who were around six feet tall and close to 200 pounds. Danielson didn’t quite fit that mold — and Henry knew it.
“And I lied,” Henry admitted. “I told them he was like six feet tall because they wanted bigger guys, like 200 lbs. Bryan’s 5’11” maybe.”
That slight exaggeration helped get Danielson through the door — and the rest is wrestling history.
From “Undersized” Prospect to WWE Legend
After joining WWE, Danielson was renamed Daniel Bryan and went on to shatter every expectation placed in front of him. He became a Grand Slam Champion, a WrestleMania main eventer, and one of the most respected performers of his generation.
Looking back, Henry has zero regrets.
“To have somebody that’s a Hall of Fame calibre wrestler that you can hang your hat on is pretty damn cool,” he said.
What Bryan Danielson Is Doing Now
Danielson left WWE in 2021 and signed with AEW, where he continued delivering world-class performances. In 2024, he retired from full-time in-ring competition but remains heavily involved behind the scenes. He has also been announced as a commentator, ensuring his voice and influence remain part of the wrestling world.
One small lie. One massive legacy.
And without Mark Henry’s belief — and a little creative storytelling — WWE history might look very different today.
