Karrion Kross challenges World Heavyweight Champion Gunther as tensions rise before this week’s WWE SmackDown, drawing new attention to Kross following his passionate address at WrestleMania 41. Ahead of the upcoming episode of the blue brand, WWE released a feature considering possible contenders for Gunther, with Kross emerging as a notable prospect and issuing a direct response on social media.
Kross, referencing the World Heavyweight title and Gunther himself, made clear his admiration for the champion, but firmly stated his desire for a match.
“Nothing but respect for The General. I’d love to fight him. ⏳,”
he wrote. —Karrion Kross, WWE Superstar
Gunther recently secured the World Heavyweight Championship by defeating Jey Uso in the main event on Monday’s episode of WWE RAW. Meanwhile, Kross has been absent from in-ring competition on both RAW and SmackDown since his participation in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, which took place on the April 18 SmackDown.
Discussion Surrounding Karrion Kross’s Status and Push in WWE
The conversation around Kross’s future intensified following remarks made by wrestling veteran Vince Russo, who suggested that Triple H—now acting as WWE’s Chief Content Officer and known as The King of Kings—may be hesitant to give Kross a more significant role on television. Russo stated that Triple H undoubtedly noticed Kross’s WrestleMania comments, but questioned his willingness to develop a sustained narrative for Kross.
“Obviously Triple H saw what Karrion Kross said. It wasn’t missed. I really really wonder bro if it is the fear of ‘How do we do this? I am not a writer, I don’t know how to write this week after week after week.’ I just really wonder if that’s what it really comes down to, because you can’t miss stuff that’s right in front of your face.”
—Vince Russo, Wrestling Veteran
As speculation grows regarding Kross’s potential storyline, it is notable that he has not yet captured a championship during his main roster tenure. With WWE’s direction for Kross uncertain, all eyes will be on what unfolds for the 39-year-old, as fans and commentators continue to debate his future as a possible challenger to Gunther’s reign on SmackDown.
