Biography
Daniel Covell has been one of the most respected independent wrestling performers for over three decades — a performer whose work ethic, technical ability, and character development made him a pivotal figure in the growth of ROH, TNA, and AEW. As Christopher Daniels, "The Fallen Angel," he developed one of wrestling's most complete villain characters and became a foundational builder of American independent wrestling.
His ROH work in the early 2000s set standards that the promotion built its reputation on. His trilogy with Samoa Joe and AJ Styles at ROH's foundational events represents the era at its best — three performers who understood how to build drama inside a wrestling match without shortcuts.
TNA gave Daniels a national platform, and he used it to accumulate multiple X Division Championship reigns that defined that title's prestige. His comedic tag team work with Kazarian ("Roppongi 3K? No — SCM3K? No — Christopher Daniels and Frankie Kazarian!") showed a performer completely comfortable in his own skin.
AEW co-founder Tony Khan brought Daniels in as a vice president of talent relations and occasional in-ring performer — recognition that his contributions extend far beyond his match record.
Finishing Moves
- Best Moonsault Ever (BME) — Springboard moonsault from the second rope over a standing opponent — a visually spectacular move that requires precise spatial awareness
- Angel's Wings — Double underhook facebuster — drives the opponent's face directly into the mat; his most consistent finish
- Last Rites — Flipping cutter — used as a third option when the BME setup isn't available
Championships & Titles
Personas & Characters
The Fallen Angel
1997–present
A morally complex villain who quotes scripture, wears white trunks, and commits acts of calculated ruthlessness. One of independent wrestling's best pure villain characters.
Curry Man / Comedy Daniels
2008–2014
Surprising comedic character work that revealed a performer completely secure in his abilities and happy to entertain in any register.
Career Timeline
Professional debut
Begins career at 23; spends years on the independent circuit developing his craft before national exposure.
ROH foundational work
Becomes one of Ring of Honor's most important early performers; defines the promotion's in-ring standard.
TNA debut
Joins TNA at its launch; becomes one of the company's most reliable performers across multiple eras.
ROH triple threat classics
His work with AJ Styles and Samoa Joe in ROH produces matches that define American independent wrestling of the era.
TNA World Champion
Wins the TNA World Heavyweight Championship — belated recognition of his main event talent.
AEW co-founder role
Joins AEW as both performer and EVP of talent relations — cementing his legacy as a builder of the sport.
FAQ
What is the Best Moonsault Ever?
The BME (Best Moonsault Ever) is Christopher Daniels's signature move — a springboard moonsault where he uses the second rope to launch himself over a standing opponent, landing on their back. It requires significant spatial awareness to execute safely.
What role does Christopher Daniels play in AEW?
Christopher Daniels serves as AEW's Executive Vice President of Talent Relations, helping manage the roster and talent recruitment, in addition to competing occasionally as a performer.
Is Christopher Daniels the same as The Fallen Angel?
Yes — 'The Fallen Angel' is Christopher Daniels's long-running character persona, used throughout his career in TNA, ROH, AEW, and on the independent circuit. The character draws on religious imagery to craft a morally complex villain.