Former WWE Star Karrion Kross Details Frustrations with Creative control & Fan Connection After Contract Expiration
STAMFORD,CT – August 11,2023 – In a candid and revealing video posted to his YouTube channel,recently departed WWE Superstar Karrion Kross detailed a series of frustrations experienced during his time with the company,stemming from perceived limitations on his in-ring performance and a disconnect regarding the value of his organic connection with fans. Kross and his partner, Scarlett, are now free agents after their contracts expired on August 10th.
The nearly hour-long video offers a behind-the-scenes look at Kross’s perspective, painting a picture of a performer feeling stifled despite demonstrable success with the audience. He described instances where he was actively discouraged from capitalizing on opportunities to deliver impactful moments, using baseball and basketball analogies to illustrate the feeling of being told how to perform rather than being allowed to react naturally. “Its probably the hardest part of the gig when you know you can give more,and thay tell you,’Hey,don’t home run thatโฆ,'” Kross explained.
This feeling of constraint was reportedly amplified as Kross and Scarlett’s popularity grew. He expressed bewilderment at what he perceived as a negative reaction from some within WWE to his strong rapport with the fanbase. “Me building a relationship and having a relationship with the audienceโฆsometimes by certain people, to me, it feels like they’re treating it as I’m being rebellious, or it’s treated almost like it’s a problem,” he stated. He felt this indicated a discomfort with his exceeding expectations, suggesting a reluctance to acknowledge his independent success.
Kross further revealed a surprising disconnect regarding merchandise sales. He learned from fans online that his Karrion Kross merchandise was a top seller on the WWE Shop, but received a non-committal “We don’t know” response when he inquired with company contacts about the figures. He emphasized the importance of recognizing the online community’s impact, arguing that fan engagement directly translates to revenue.
Despite these challenges, Kross highlighted the strong support he received from his peers within the WWE locker room, noting encouragement from both male and female performers. He specifically shared impactful advice from veteran R-Truth, who, following a flight from Saudi Arabia, told Kross that the “title that the people gave you when they chose you” is a lasting achievement, regardless of championship wins.
The video concluded with Kross reading a deeply moving letter from a fan who credited him and Scarlett with providing solace during a difficult period, including navigating multiple miscarriages. This underscored the tangible impact of their connection with the audience, a connection Kross repeatedly emphasized as being undervalued.
Despite his frustrations, Kross expressed a desire to remain with WWE, stating, “What I would like to happen, I would love to stay with WWE, and I’d love, ideally, to finish my career there.”
Karrion Kross and Scarlett’s departure marks a significant shift in the landscape of professional wrestling, leaving fans to speculate on their next move. The full video detailing Kross’s experiences is available on his official YouTube channel.
