After weeks of speculation about her future in ROH, it seems Maria Kanellis has finally inked a deal and will be appearing in America's No. 3 wrestling promotion on a more permanent basis from now on.
The former Playboy cover girl, who parted ways with WWE in 2010, made her first appearance for ROH last month at the Final Battle PPV, accompanying real-life boyfriend Mike Bennett to the ring for his three-way match with Jay Lethal and El Generico for the ROH television title.
Her short but memorable appearance on the show received positive reviews, with people praising her for her enthusiasm and ability to come off like a star, but her future in the company seemed up in the air.
Indeed, ROH, with its all-male roster, has shown little interest in pushing female characters on their show in the past, possibly feeling the inclusion of women would make them too much like watered-down wrestling companies like WWE or TNA (both of whom have far too many girls used mainly in the eye-candy role, running around).
Regardless, it appears a deal has been worked out between the two parties, as LordsofPain notes. Kanellis once again appeared in Bennett's corner at last night's ROH television tapings in Baltimore, Maryland.
The site also notes Maria was nicknamed "The First Lady of ROH" at the shows, strongly indicating she's sticking around for a more prominent role. Kanellis also noted on her Twitter that she will be appearing on the next set of tapings as well.