In August, Arik Cannon voiced criticism toward 19-year-old Avery Styles for not helping with chair setup at a GCW event. The critique quickly gained attention, prompting Avery’s father, AJ Styles, to respond that his son’s role was to wrestle, not to assist the ring crew. Cody Rhodes also publicly supported Avery on social media.
This topic was further discussed on the latest episode of What Do You Wanna Talk About? with Cody Rhodes, where Avery addressed the incident and dismissed it as absurd. He said the controversy stemmed from people thinking he needed to “pay his dues.”
“It was probably the most ridiculous conversation I’ve ever heard about on X,” Avery remarked.
Rhodes commented that the wrestlers’ reactions reflect how Avery is perceived in locker rooms.
“You build a certain reputation and standard, and that’s exactly what happened with the chair incident,” Rhodes explained.
He added, “This young man is being treated fairly here, and people debating it shows a level of respect for both him and the situation.”
Rhodes mentioned that he occasionally likes to weigh in on online discussions, and this one was significant enough for him to step in.
“I enjoy jumping into these conversations sometimes, but this time I thought, we’re not doing this to this kid,” Rhodes said.
“Some of us, myself included, couldn’t just let it slide,” he added.
He clarified that he does not believe second-generation wrestlers should be exempt from traditional expectations in professional wrestling.
“What I’m saying is that there’s a certain knowledge and understanding that comes with growing up in the business. For example, my mom was a wrestler even though she never set up a chair, and my sister is also a wrestler without ever doing that kind of work. She lived the business fully. It’s about a little grace. Also, Avery wasn’t even at that particular show; he was there for another event. Unfortunately, he has a target on his back, and that won’t disappear,” Rhodes explained.
“I don’t regret stepping in because we weren’t going to tolerate that nonsense, but I’m not saying second-generation wrestlers don’t have to help set up chairs,” he clarified.
Rhodes shared that he himself drove the ring truck early in his career. Avery mentioned he will be expected to help out when setting up a gym where he’s starting a ring.
Fan Take: This story highlights the ongoing debate about respect and tradition versus fresh talent in wrestling, reminding fans that even newcomers from wrestling families face scrutiny. How the industry manages these expectations can shape locker room culture and influence the next generation of fighters.
Source: wrestlingnews.co
