Speculation about an Adam Cole potential feud with Karrion Kross in AEW has surfaced, following news of Kross’s contract expiring in WWE this year. With Adam Cole currently holding the AEW TNT Championship, fans and industry experts are considering what a renewed rivalry between these two former NXT stars would look like if Kross makes the jump to All Elite Wrestling.
Adam Cole’s Journey from WWE to AEW Championship Reign
Adam Cole has established himself as a key figure in All Elite Wrestling since signing with the promotion in 2021. After securing the AEW TNT Championship by defeating Daniel Garcia at Dynasty 2025, Cole is currently experiencing his first title run with the Jacksonville-based company. Although he occupies a mid-card position at present, momentum around Cole continues to build, and many are hopeful that a push to the main event scene may be on the horizon.
Before his AEW tenure, Adam Cole was a notable WWE competitor and remains the longest-reigning NXT Champion, holding the title for nearly 400 days. One of the highlights of his WWE career was his intense rivalry with Karrion Kross, a feud that captured considerable attention among wrestling fans.
Uncertainty Surrounding Karrion Kross’s WWE Future
Karrion Kross’s standing in WWE has caused debate, as he remains a fan favorite despite a stretch of underwhelming storylines and minimal involvement in major feuds. With rumors swirling about his contract expiring later this year, speculation has grown that Tony Khan, AEW’s owner, could sign him when the opportunity arises. Should Kross join AEW, not only would his previous rivalry with Adam Cole be reignited, but he might also become a contender for the AEW World Championship.
Karrion Kross Reflects On Friendship With Jon Moxley and WWE Return Hopes
Karrion Kross has strong connections within wrestling, including a friendship with current AEW star Jon Moxley (formerly known as Dean Ambrose). In a recent Battleground podcast episode, Kross reminisced about battling Moxley on the independent circuit in 2019 and discussed what Moxley’s return to WWE could mean.
“I do hope one day. I do hope one day that he does come back to WWE because I think it would be insane. I think it would be insane, and I would love to compete with him here,”
said Kross. —Karrion Kross, WWE Star
Despite not being consistently featured in WWE’s major storylines, Kross remains popular among fans, and many observers hope his career will gain renewed momentum, possibly through new opportunities outside WWE.
What Could Be Next for Cole and Kross?
The possibility of Karrion Kross joining AEW creates the potential for a high-profile rivalry with Adam Cole, which would blend their rich history from WWE with their renewed momentum in a new setting. Wrestling enthusiasts are closely watching Kross’s contract situation, curious to see if Tony Khan will add yet another fan favorite to his company’s roster. Both wrestlers stand at career crossroads, and should their paths cross once more in AEW, it could spark one of the most compelling storylines of the coming year.
