WWE SmackDown’s Karrion Kross has revealed ongoing challenges with the creative process at WWE, disclosing in a recent interview that his darkest character ideas have been repeatedly rejected. For several years, Kross has struggled to understand the long-term vision for his persona, leading to uncertainty about his role in the company.
Ambitions to Push His Villainous Image Further
In a conversation with 10 Count Media, the former NXT Champion expressed a strong desire to amplify the sinister aspects of his villain character. He explained that his proposals to become an exceptionally malevolent heel have not been accepted by WWE’s creative team over the past three years.
“I would take things further. I would take things way further,”
Kross said.
“I’ve suggested to take things further over the last three years—to be the most vile character anyone has ever seen as a villain. But they have not played out that way… I’ve had ideas that will probably be in the book since they never came to fruition that I’ll tell people about that would shock people. Really nasty, scary, bad guy heel stuff.”
—Karrion Kross, WWE SmackDown Star
Adjusting Expectations Amid Creative Restrictions
With his darker concepts denied, Kross acknowledged shifting his focus away from provoking extreme negative reactions. Instead, he is concentrating on entertaining the audience within the limitations imposed on him. This adjustment reflects his pragmatic attitude about his current position.
“My mind has shifted away from getting nuclear heat because I haven’t really been permitted to get that,”
he admitted.
“So at the very least, it’s World Wrestling Entertainment. I’ve got to entertain these people. I’ve got to make sure that they’re leaving with a smile on their face.”
—Karrion Kross, WWE SmackDown Star
Ongoing Presence on SmackDown Despite Uncertain Role
Despite creative frustrations, Kross and his manager Scarlett have maintained a steady presence on Friday Night SmackDown. Recently, he was involved in storylines targeting Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena and top contender Cody Rhodes, building anticipation for their upcoming contract signing segment.
Future Prospects in WWE’s Changing SmackDown Environment
As WWE’s SmackDown landscape continues to evolve, Karrion Kross remains a key figure, though questions remain about the direction of his character. His experience highlights ongoing tensions between wrestler creativity and company planning, underscoring the challenges of reconciling individual vision with broader storytelling.
