Maria Kanellis-Bennett, a seasoned professional wrestler, has been a force to be reckoned with in the ring and behind the scenes. Her journey from a valet to a manager showcases her versatility and influence in the wrestling industry. In a recent interview with Wrestling Life Online, Kanellis delves into the evolving role of managers in modern wrestling, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities within the industry.
Kanellis, a former WWE 24/7 Champion and AEW competitor, reminisces about her early days as a valet, where her role was often reduced to a damsel in distress. She explains, "I walked out there, I had a pair of legs, I could move my legs down there and then I smiled pretty and then I moved my legs on back. That was a lot of what my job was for those first few years. It worked, because it was a damsel in distress and you could see that I was a damsel in distress." This early phase, she notes, was a simpler time for managers, where the character was more straightforward and less complex.
As the industry evolved, Kanellis witnessed a shift in the role of managers. She observes, "As time went on, women were finally able to do the things they were always capable of doing." This transition phase, according to Kanellis, saw the wrestling business grappling with the definition and purpose of a valet. She believes that the strong, Chyna-type manager and the more nuanced, Jim Cornette-inspired character are still relevant and can thrive if executed correctly.
Kanellis' perspective is insightful, as she acknowledges the challenges and opportunities in the modern wrestling landscape. She states, "I think that character I played in 2004 is still very possible in 2026, if done right. I think that the strong, Chyna-type manager is still very viable in 2026. I think that the Jim Cornette, but maybe censored a bit, is still okay. Paul Heyman is doing it now, so it shows it's still wanted, it's just a matter of being able to do it."
Kanellis' commentary highlights the importance of character development and execution in the manager role. She emphasizes that while the concept of a manager may have evolved, the essence of a strong, charismatic figure remains. Her insights offer a fresh perspective on the evolving dynamics within professional wrestling, inviting fans and industry professionals alike to reconsider the potential of managers in the modern era.
