TNA's Matt Hardy Weighs In On Controversy Surrounding Son Of WWE's AJ Styles

Matt Hardy has waded into the controversy surrounding AJ Styles' son, Avery, and the criticism he has faced from indie wrestlers.

Hardy began to address the topic on "The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy" podcast by saying that it was wise for AJ Styles to put Avery in a promotion like GCW, where Avery would be able to learn in a safe manner. He then discussed the controversy, stating that he knows Arik Cannon personally and said that the matter should have been resolved in a better manner.

"I have worked with him [Cannon]. He has brought me in to do a couple of appearances at his First Wrestling stuff. I did one of the things at the mall. Had a great time with him. I like him, and I think he's a good guy," began Hardy. "It seems like they paid to fly him [Avery] in. They wanted him to come in, and I think part of that was because he's AJ Styles' son. There's some buzz on his name, whatever else. And, you know, if he would have been there earlier and he would have offered or helped, it is what it is. Even though he didn't, the fact of the matter is that they reached out to him, and the fact that they flew him in and paid him to come in, I don't think that was part of the deal, so to say."

GCW's Brett Lauderdale also recently gave his opinion on the subject, taking a neutral stance and saying that Avery will learn from any mistakes he has made. Hardy further delved into the issue at hand and how it should've been handled.

Matt Hardy said that Arik Cannon should've spoken to Avery personally rather than airing his grievances on social media. He also mentioned how Avery Styles had helped at another show that he was a part of, to highlight that AJ Styles' son does help out at shows.

"I think it's more or less one of those things where it would have probably been better if Arik would have just mentioned it to him after his match, towards the end of the show when he was there. I think you mention it there like, 'Hey, it would probably been a better idea if you would have at least offered to put chairs or the ring, how can I help, whatever.' There were some promotions I saw when he was at my show, he did offer to help if we needed anything, whatever else," added Hardy. "I think putting it out on social media was probably not the best way to go about it."

The veteran star said that Cannon's comments wouldn't hurt him, but he felt that they didn't make him look good, as he thinks the matter should have been discussed between the concerned individuals. Many in the pro wrestling business have jumped to Avery's defense, including former WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, who said that the youngster has already paid his dues through the sacrifices his legendary father made.