Former WWE Superstar Karrion Kross has spoken candidly about how he used online speculation and rumors for his own form of trolling, intentionally playing into fan theories to manipulate the WWE Universe. In a recent interview, Karrion Kross discussed how using these rumors allowed him to control the narrative around his wrestling persona, with Karrion Kross trolling WWE Universe becoming a deliberate tactic.
Playing Into Online Rumors to Fuel His Persona
During a discussion with Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp, Karrion Kross addressed the widespread internet chatter that he refused to take back bumps in the ring, a rumor that circulated throughout his recent WWE run. Rather than shying away from the gossip, Kross decided to embrace it as part of his on-screen character, targeting fans who engage with and spread these types of online rumors. Kross noted that this approach garnered more attention from the audience and piqued the interest of those on social media known for trolling wrestlers and events alike. By intentionally adopting a trolling persona in recent backstage segments and storylines, especially while interacting with other WWE figures like Truth and The Miz, Kross took control of the “trolling” narrative himself.
“I just figured it was trolling. I didn’t think that anyone actually believed it. I think it’s like a bunch of people getting online and being like, ‘The sky is not just blue, it’s also blue and white with the clouds, and at dusk it changes color.’ Like, they just want to argue that the sky is not blue,”
Karrion Kross said.
Sarcastic Reaction to Fan Theories
Karrion Kross did not just stop at embracing rumors; he responded to them with heavy sarcasm. Referring specifically to claims about his lack of bumps being the secret to his success, Kross joked about his involvement in major WWE Premium Live Events such as Crown Jewel and SummerSlam. He implied that simply not participating in matches or taking physical risks led to his placement at these high-profile shows, clearly taking a jab at the logic behind these fan theories.
“‘Dude, teach us. How did you get on Crown Jewel, Saudi Arabia, SummerSlam? Was it just not bumping? Like, you bumped for the first year and a half of your career. You just decided in the last year and a half on this last contract that you weren’t gonna bump. Is that how you got on the PLEs?’ And I said, ‘Yes, you just need to do what I do. Never show up on the show, stand 50 feet away from the camera in the background, have no lines, don’t bump, and they’ll put you on the PLEs. Trust me,’”
Karrion Kross said.
Broader Impact on WWE Universe Perception
Karrion Kross’s approach underscores the ever-evolving relationship between wrestling performers and the audience, especially as social media and online platforms amplify rumors and create new story opportunities. By openly acknowledging and even weaponizing fan speculation, Kross has not only taken control of his narrative but has highlighted the blurred line between character and reality in professional wrestling. This could influence how both fans and performers engage with rumors, potentially shifting the culture within the WWE Universe and beyond as similar tactics are adopted by others.
