Maria Kanellis-Bennett, a veteran of the professional wrestling world, has had a multifaceted career spanning WWE and AEW. Her journey began as a valet, a role that often involved little more than a damsel in distress persona. However, Kanellis evolved into a strong, Chyna-like manager, showcasing her versatility and adaptability within the industry. In a recent interview with Wrestling Life Online, Kanellis discussed the changing dynamics of managers in modern wrestling.
She highlighted the transition phase the business has undergone, where the traditional damsel in distress role has given way to more complex and nuanced manager characters. Kanellis believes that the strong, Chyna-type manager is still very much viable in 2026, as evidenced by Paul Heyman's current work. She argues that the character she played in 2004, which focused on physical presence and a damsel in distress trope, can still be successfully executed today if done right.
Kanellis' perspective is particularly insightful because she has firsthand experience in both the traditional and evolving roles of managers. Her ability to adapt and excel in various roles within the wrestling industry is a testament to her skill and versatility. However, she also acknowledges the challenges of playing a manager character, noting that it requires a unique set of skills and a deep understanding of the character's nuances.
One of the key points Kanellis makes is that the diminished roles of managers in modern wrestling are often due to a lack of understanding or execution of the character. She believes that if done right, the strong, Chyna-type manager is still a valuable and compelling part of the wrestling narrative. This perspective is particularly interesting because it challenges the notion that managers are becoming less important in the modern wrestling landscape.
In my opinion, Kanellis' insights into the role of managers in wrestling are incredibly valuable. Her ability to reflect on her own journey and provide a nuanced perspective on the evolution of the manager character is a testament to her expertise and experience in the industry. What many people don't realize is that the manager role is not just about physical presence or a damsel in distress trope; it's about creating a compelling narrative and adding depth to the wrestling story.
Kanellis' commentary also raises a deeper question about the future of wrestling and the evolving roles of its characters. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how the manager role adapts and changes to fit the modern landscape. One thing that immediately stands out is that Kanellis' perspective is a refreshing and insightful take on a character that is often overlooked or misunderstood.
In conclusion, Maria Kanellis-Bennett's interview with Wrestling Life Online offers a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the role of managers in modern wrestling. Her insights into the evolution of the manager character and the challenges of executing it effectively are incredibly valuable. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how the manager role adapts and changes, and I look forward to seeing Kanellis' continued contributions to the world of professional wrestling.
