The Viper vs. The Goat

Daniel Bryan gets the RKO
Photo courtesy: WWE

By Kevin Hunsperger
@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents

Daniel Bryan got the sweet taste of WWE Championship gold briefly at SummerSlam 2013.  That taste was knocked out of his mouth after a blindsided Pedigree by Triple H and a pinfall victory for "The Viper" Randy Orton.  Now, the Apex Predator is back at the top of the mountain.

Initially, I thought the decision to put the WWE title back on Randy Orton was going to bother me, but really it hasn't.  I think we all knew when he won the Money in the Bank briefcase at this year's installment of the pay-per-view, that it would be a matter of time for him to recapture the championship.  And he's been out of the title picture for a couple years now, he's a easy to hate on, which is also a plus for this story.

Yes, I am disappointed the Daniel Bryan lost the title so quickly.  But I have to admit, I like the way this story is unfolding.  Bryan has found himself at the top of the roster in terms of babyfaces in the company.  He has been getting crazy pops lately, but now with John Cena out for four to six months and Sheamus sidelined for just as long, I view this as a real chance to develop Bryan's character further and endear him even more to the fans.

Steph vs. Bryan
Photo courtesy: WWE

He's the lovable underdog, but clearly has the talent.  I dare say he's the best in the WWE right now.  I loved his exchange in the ring with Stephanie McMahon during the Raw following SummerSlam.   Sure, it's a reminder of the past "authority figure vs. top babyface" storylines, but I am digging this.  Orton and his alliance with the McMahons, although somewhat inconsistent (but Triple H explained he buried the hatchet, and really who else is there on the roster to fill the role right now?), does make sense as I think people love to hate the Viper.  I think bringing in the Shield as well was a nice touch.  It's refreshing to see guys who have toiled on the undercard be used in some of the main storytelling.

I can't wait to see what the next step is on this journey for Daniel Bryan, because I do believe the company has something big in store for him.  Of course, if Cena returns and ends up being the one to defeat Orton, you can bet, I'll share "my 1-2-3 cents" then too.  But for now, I'm going to remain positive and enjoy the ride.