Maria

In an industry often dominated by men, Maria Kanellis has carved out a unique space for herself as one of the most beloved and respected female wrestlers in the world. Born in 1982 in Ottawa, Illinois, Maria began her wrestling journey at the tender age of 19, training under the tutelage of legendary grappler, Al Snow.

Maria's early years in the ring were marked by a natural charisma and athleticism that quickly set her apart from her peers. Her All-rounder style, which blends technical grappling with high-flying aerial attacks, has allowed her to excel in both singles and tag team competition. With a lithe 5'7" frame and a svelte 120 pounds of muscle, Maria's agility and quickness make her a formidable opponent in the ring.

But Maria's impact on the wrestling world goes far beyond her in-ring exploits. As a valet, she has consistently demonstrated an uncanny ability to elevate the profiles of her male counterparts, drawing attention to their matches and storylines through her clever promos and captivating persona. Her chemistry with partners like CM Punk and Daniel Bryan was undeniable, as was her capacity to generate heat and tension in her feuds.

Throughout her illustrious career, Maria has faced her share of setbacks and challenges. A series of injuries forced her into an extended hiatus from the ring, only to return with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. Her 2018 marriage to fellow wrestler Mike Bennett (ring name: Michael Elgin) brought both personal and professional stability, allowing her to re-focus on her wrestling pursuits.

Today, Maria Kanellis-Bennett can be found in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where she continues to make waves as a fan favorite. Her signature moves – the Beautiful Bulldog, Diving Crossbody, and Bronco Buster – remain some of the most beloved and feared in the business. With her unparalleled valet skills, Maria has become an integral part of AEW's storylines, offering a unique blend of humor, wit, and emotional depth.

As the wrestling world continues to evolve, Maria Kanellis-Bennett remains an enduring figure – a true pioneer for women in the sport. Her dedication to her craft, her unwavering commitment to her fans, and her unshakeable sense of self have cemented her place as one of the greatest female wrestlers of all time. As AEW's All-Elite Excellence continues to grow, Maria Kanellis-Bennett stands poised to leave an indelible mark on the sport she loves – a testament to her enduring legacy in the world of professional wrestling.