Ex-AEW Star Sidesteps Question On Future As WWE Rumours Grow

Another former AEW star has been asked about returning to WWE.

Maria Kanellis began her wrestling career in 2004 when taking part in WWE’s Diva Search. Although she didn’t win the contest, she was quickly snapped up by the sports entertainment giant and stayed with the company until 2010.

The star then featured for the likes of ROH, TNA, and NJPW alongside her real-life husband, Mike Bennett. The pair eventually made their way to WWE in 2017 but were released as part of cuts stemming from the COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020.

After another stint on the independent scene, Maria and Mike signed with AEW in 2022.

In more recent times, Maria has been off television for several months following a series of health issues that saw her undergo surgery. During this hiatus, she noted she would likely depart AEW in the coming months.

While it was no secret she would be leaving AEW, Maria Kanellis announced she was a free agent on February 1.

It should be noted that Mike Bennett remains under AEW contract and is a regular on Collision and in Ring of Honor.

Maria Kanellis Linked With WWE Return

Ever since it became clear the star would be leaving AEW, she’s been linked with a return to WWE, especially among fans. And in a series of posts online, Kanellis has now addressed the speculation coming her way.

In response to a question on social media about whether she would hypothetically follow her husband back to WWE, Kanellis was full of praise for the company, commenting that her opinion has been transformed.

I love everything they are doing. From marketing to booking. It’s a professionalism that has completely transformed my opinion of @WWE

When asked again whether she would return to WWE or TNA, the star said she’s got little interest in working in wrestling at present unless the right opportunity comes up.

I am focused on my family. I’m happy doing a few signings, photo shoots, building @thewildstems, writing my book, and going back to school. That’s enough unless the right opportunity comes up. I’m not forcing anything nor do I want it. I could have died last year. This year is about reflection and spiritual growth. Not proving to people I don’t know that “I’ve still got it.”

Back in February 2024, Maria Kanellis called for justice after Janel Grant filed a lawsuit against Vince McMahon, WWE, and John Laurinaitis alleging sex trafficking and sexual assault.

Kanellis noted that many people had “experienced or heard rumours of different levels of evil for years.”