After working in April with IWA Mid-South, Austin Aries began his 2004 breakout as a competitor in ECWA's 8th annual Super 8 tournament. Though he didn't win the tournament, Aries gained fan interest with his impressive match against Christopher Daniels. Shortly after, Aries made his Ring of Honor debut and eventually joined with Alex Shelley, Roderick Strong and Jack Evans to form the faction Generation Next. The group dominated the ROH roster in an effort to take the top spots in the promotion, with Aries working as a singles and tag team competitor. In August of 2004, Aries received praise for the 80 minute wrestling clinic against American Dragon Bryan Danielson, in a 2 out of 3 falls match. He eventually worked his way up the roster earning a title shot against Ring of Honor Champion Samoa Joe at ROH's Final Battle. To a roaring ovation, Aries upset Samoa Joe and won the ROH heavyweight championship. Aries also continued to make his presence in the indy wrestling world known as a regular with IWA Mid-South, as well as appearances in Full Impact Pro and Chaotic Wrestling.
Next: Favorite Indy Moment >> 
