WWE Asked Bryan Danielson to Stop Using “YES!” Chant – During a recent panel appearance at Starrcast, Bryan Danielson revealed that WWE has formally asked him to stop using the iconic “Yes!” chant that became synonymous with his rise to superstardom. The request, according to Danielson, was made directly and only recently, despite the chant being inactive as a trademark for some time.
Danielson shared that he once attempted to trademark the chant himself, but ultimately abandoned the process. WWE quickly moved to capitalize on the opportunity, filing two separate trademark applications for “YES YES YES” in 2024. These filings now give WWE legal ownership over the phrase most commonly associated with Danielson’s crowd-energizing entrances and moments of triumph.
This development raises questions about fan interaction with Danielson moving forward, especially as he transitions into a more behind-the-scenes role within AEW and Ring of Honor. Though still competing part-time, Danielson has become increasingly influential backstage and is rumored to be a key figure in creative and talent development.
WWE’s timing has led to speculation that the move may be about more than just intellectual property rights. Given Danielson’s central presence in AEW programming—especially in major events and matches—it’s possible the trademark enforcement is also meant to limit his ability to invoke nostalgic WWE-era fan engagement, particularly when AEW continues to court broader mainstream audiences.
The “Yes!” chant was a cultural phenomenon during Danielson’s WWE run, reaching its peak during the build to WrestleMania 30 in 2014. It transcended wrestling and appeared at mainstream sporting events and on late-night television. Yet, as this situation underscores, ownership of iconic elements like chants and slogans can be complex, with the company rather than the individual often holding the legal keys.
Whether Danielson will find a new way to hype up crowds or fans continue the chant organically without official prompting remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: one of wrestling’s most memorable crowd interactions is now legally off-limits to the man who made it famous.
WWE Asked Bryan Danielson to Stop Using “YES!” Chant
