Karrion Kross praises Steven Borden Jr for his early dedication to professional wrestling, recognizing the impressive work ethic and skills of the son of WWE icon Sting. The former WWE superstar, speaking recently, highlighted the commitment Steven Jr. has shown since stepping into the industry.
Steven Borden Jr., the son of legendary wrestler Sting, has been drawing attention after taking significant steps to follow his father’s path in wrestling. His athletic lineage is accompanied by notable sports experience, having played as a tight end for both Kilgore College and the University of Kentucky before starting his professional wrestling training. His introduction to fans came when he appeared alongside his brother, Garrett, during the Revolution 2024 event, marking Sting’s retirement as he teamed with Darby Allin against The Young Bucks.
Shortly after this high-profile appearance, Steven Jr. began training with Darby Allin, signaling his serious intent to build a career in wrestling. By October the same year, he made his official in-ring debut at the 52Walker art gallery in New York, teaming with JD Drake of The WorkHorsemen to face Darby Allin and Karrion Kross in a tag match. This marked not only his first match, but also the start of his journey on the independent circuit.
Respected Voices Recognize Steven Jr.’s Integrity and Drive
Karrion Kross, also known as the Herald of Doomsday, was vocal in his admiration for Steven Jr. during a recent interview with Fightful. He singled out the young wrestler’s focus, intensity, and drive to establish his own name without relying on his father’s legendary status.
“For somebody who is so early in his development as a pro wrestler? He’s very, very sharp. He has the right mentality, moving forward, he’s not getting into this for clout, he’s not getting into this for any of the wrong reasons,”
Kross said. — Karrion Kross, Former WWE Superstar
The wrestling veteran further emphasized Steven Jr.’s refusal to take shortcuts or ride on his father’s achievements, instead working rigorously to improve his own skills and understanding of the sport.
“He’s not looking for any shortcuts… He’s not looking for some murder run where he comes in and has some sort of, I don’t know how you’d put it, like, he’s not trying to live off his father’s credentials. That’s the most plain, basic way I can put it. And, he’s good. He’s very, very good. He takes it seriously, and he’s training his a** off.”
[H/T – Wrestling Inc] — Karrion Kross, Former WWE Superstar
Progress Across Major and Independent Promotions
Following his debut, Steven Jr. has continued to compete in multiple independent events, further proving his seriousness about wrestling. In December, he participated in a dark match ahead of AEW Dynamite: Winter is Coming 2025, officially performing under the All Elite Wrestling banner. Recently, he made another significant appearance by wrestling Jon Cruz for AEW’s sister promotion, Ring of Honor, prior to AEW Collision.
Despite his progress and growing reputation, it remains unclear whether All Elite Wrestling will eventually offer Steven Borden Jr. a formal contract. However, his increasing experience on both major and independent stages suggests a strong possibility of further opportunities within the Tony Khan-led company or beyond.
As Steven Borden Jr. continues to build a name for himself through commitment and hard work, the wrestling community and fans alike are watching his journey with interest, recognizing not just his famous lineage but his own emerging identity in the sport.
