WWE star Daniel Bryan is retiring after receiving 'a lot of concussions'

Wrestling star Daniel Bryan has announced he's retiring because of medical reasons.

The former WWE world heavyweight champion explained his decision in an emotional speech on Monday evening's Raw.

"It gets to the point where you've been wrestling for 16 years, that adds up to a lot of concussions," he told the crowd.

"It gets to a point where they tell you you can't wrestle any more."

Watch Bryan give his speech.

Bryan said that for a long time he's fought against advice telling him to stop wrestling.

He's had to take time out for health reasons before, but last year his wife Brie Bella, from Total Divas, said she was hopeful he'd get back in the ring.

"A week and a half ago I took a test which said maybe my brain isn't as OK as I thought it was," the star revealed on Raw.

"I have a family to think about and it is with a heavy heart and the utmost sadness that I officially announce my retirement."

He broke the news on Twitter earlier on Monday.

The 34-year-old said he was grateful for his career.

"I've been angry, I've been sad, I've been frustrated, I've been all of that. But today when I woke up this morning, I felt nothing but gratitude.

"I have gotten to do what I love for nearly 16 years. I am grateful."

He added that he was also grateful to wrestling because it meant meeting his wife Brie Bella.

She posted on Instagram: "A new journey awaits us."

"Now tomorrow morning I start a new life, a life where I am no longer a wrestler.

"But that is tomorrow and that is not tonight and by damn I have one more night to feel this energy and to feel this crowd.

"So if I could just get one last 'Yes' chant I would really appreciate it."

His fans, of course, obliged and many more have been paying tribute to him online.

Ric Flair said congrats on a great run with the WWE.

"Simply the best!" tweeted Brock Lesnar Guy.

Bray Wyatt said it was very sad to lose one of the best wrestlers this century.

One fan said Bryan inspired him to pursue wrestling.

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