The connection between former Belgian football star and the world of professional wrestling is a story of physical legacy and paternal protection . Daniel’s father, Francis (Franz) Van Buyten , was a prominent Belgian "catcher" (pro wrestler) whose career left an indelible mark on his son's path to sporting greatness. The Legend of Franz Van Buyten

: As a child, Daniel initially wanted to follow in his father's footsteps and become a professional wrestler.

Throughout Daniel’s career at FC Bayern Munich , his father’s wrestling roots remained a point of camaraderie and humor. His teammates once planned a "catcher-celebration" to honor Franz’s legacy after Daniel scored, though Daniel jokingly tried to talk them out of it.

: Knowing the physical toll and inherent dangers of the ring—having once been temporarily paralyzed after falling out of the ring in 1974—Franz steered Daniel toward football instead.

: Franz believed football offered a safer, yet still physically demanding, outlet for Daniel’s immense strength. Professional Tributes

Franz Van Buyten passed away on coincidentally Daniel’s birthday—at the age of 81. His life remains a testament to the "Van Buyten" name’s notoriety in Belgium, which existed long before Daniel became an international football icon.