Maria Kanellis Reveals How AEW Extended Her Contract To Ensure She Could Fully Recover From Surgery
Maria Kanellis is grateful to AEW for taking care of her, even when her contract was about to expire.
Making her first appearance AEW in October 2022, Maria Kanellis came into the company as a manager alongside The Kingdom. She’d depart in January 2025, though she’s now revealed how Tony Khan came to her aid before her time with the promotion came to an end.
In a chat with Wrestling Life, Maria Kanellis noted how the company supported her during her tumour removal.
“I had the tumor removed, and that was in October. They extended my contract out for three months when I was still in the hospital. So I get a call while I’m in the hospital. They want to extend the contract. Thank you for the blessing of having three months of recovery to kind of get back on my feet after that.”
-Maria Kanellis
While this initially may seem like a small thing, the tumour that Maria had was very serious. She even noted elsewhere in the interview that this was a tumor most doctors only find after the person has died, and she further acknowledged that it messed with her hormones and mood. Thankfully, the company have made a habit of supporting their talent through tough times.
Another who can attest to Tony Khan’s treatment of the AEW roster is Dezmond Xavier. He was missing from AEW Collision last night, while the other members of the Rascalz had big matches against title holders, due to a death in his family. He revealed on his Twitter page that Tony Khan sent him flowers and a card to show his condolences.
Having had memorable stints with WWE, TNA, and ROH during her career, Kanellis is a hugely recognisable name for wrestling fans who tuned in in the late 2000s and early 2010s. It’s worth noting that Mike Bennett remains with AEW/ ROH today.
After the success of the recent “Rebel Heart” Dynamite and all the Ice Bucket Challenges to raise awareness, the promotion have shown as eagerness to stand alongside their affiliated talent no matter what they’re going through.
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As always, we’ll aim to provide any further updates on Maria Kanellis as soon as we hear more.
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