5 best second-generation wrestlers in AEW

#2 HOOK: Son of AEW announcer and ECW legend Taz

Not many wrestlers in AEW or indeed the world have managed to garner the attention and praise that HOOK has amassed in the first two outings of his career. The son of Taz has been a part of his father's stable since December 2020 before making his in-ring debut earlier this month.

His first outing against Fuego Del Sol resulted in a submission victory to much fanfare, with fans and peers alike impressed with the long-awaited debut.

It's plain to see that HOOK is on a path to greatness in AEW. Not only has his debut drawn attention, but he has even garnered such a following that he unseated CM Punk of all people to become the company's top merch seller.

In such a short span of time we have seen HOOK compile a following that even veterans of the sport dream of having. Already one of the most exciting second generation wrestlers right now, there is no telling where HOOK can go in AEW in the future.

#1 Cody Rhodes: Son of Dusty Rhodes in his third AEW TNT title reign

Love him or hate him, there is no doubt that Cody Rhodes has been quintessential to the birth and meteoric rise of AEW. The son and younger brother of Dusty and Dustin Rhodes respectively, Cody has spent his post-WWE career cementing himself as a legitimate main event attraction before settling into his EVP role with AEW.

Not content with sitting on the sidelines spectating, the American Nightmare has been a focal aspect of AEW programming, capturing the TNT title on three occasions. Taking character and booking criticism aside, the grandson of a plumber has more than proved his wrestling pedigree at this point, having carved a legacy entirely separate to but also in honor of his legendary father.

Perhaps the reason for AEW's continued investment in generational talent can be attributed to Cody's own status as one of the founding fathers of AEW and a generational talent in his own right.