Report: AJ to be featured prominently on WWE TV going forward

For those watching this past week's episode of Monday Night Raw, they saw a change from the norm. Instead of John Cena getting all the play throughout the two hour show, it was a Diva who was featured prominently.

I'm talking about AJ, of course.

Raw opened with a video package featuring her, she was given time in the 10 p.m. ET segment, which is a prime slot, and she closed the show with a big part in the main event. It's hard to believe, really, that World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) would be this dedicated to getting a female over but apparently, the company has big plans for her.

Dave Meltzer revealed as much in the latest Wrestling Observer newsletter (subscription required):

For what it's worth, right now the plan is to make A.J. into one of the featured stars of the company, as a completely different but modern day version of Elizabeth or Sable. It's not just for this PPV, but going forward. ... I was told that the plans are to continue her being the focal point, obviously with whatever Cena is doing also being pushed and HHH vs. Lesnar being the focal point in last few shows before SummerSlam, for the rest of the summer.

I'm not sure what exactly would lead to the change in direction/philosophy for the powers that be in Stamford, Connecticut, but if this report rings true, it's certainly a nice step in the right direction. However, the timing is also quite fascinating.

The Bella Twins recently left the company citing burnout, Kelly Kelly took a leave of absence to get back into modeling and what not, and Maxine quit because she didn't see enough upward mobility and wanted to pursue other endeavors.

Perhaps WWE is recognizing the need to feature women so as not to lose them all to outside ventures? Or maybe AJ is simply too talented to be held down? What do you think of all this, Cagesiders?