WWE Superstar Karrion Kross recently spoke with Foundation Radio about his 2025 career resurgence, emphasizing the critical role his fans played in reigniting his momentum. His rising popularity culminated in an unexpected spot at the Night of Champions Premium Live Event, a direct result of the fan-driven “We Want Kross” movement.
Kross noted that the turning point in public perception happened after his match against AJ Styles earlier this year, which marked a shift in how audiences received him as a performer.
Moments That Sparked Newfound Fan Support
Following the match with Styles, Kross experienced increasing fan support, fueled by several key milestones including his participation in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal and a captivating appearance on the Sam Roberts Podcast. These moments helped build greater awareness and enthusiasm around his character, further elevating his profile within WWE.
Fan Advocacy Leads to Last-Minute Night of Champions Opportunity
Despite no long-term plans, Kross was informed shortly before the Night of Champions event that he would be included, an opportunity he attributes entirely to fan voices worldwide.
“The people—fans all over the world—are the reason I was on Night of Champions,”
Kross revealed.
“This wasn’t a long-term plan. I was told about it last minute. I want people to know: they made that happen.”
He urged supporters to remain vocal about what matters to them, highlighting the real impact their feedback has on WWE’s decisions.
“It’s being heard. Not just by me, but by everybody. If you feel strongly about something—stay loud. It absolutely makes a difference.”
Character Evolution Fuels Renewed Connection with Fans
Kross acknowledges that part of his rise involved shifting away from his earlier, colder persona toward a more complex and engaging character. He described how WWE initially favored a silent, menacing figure, but realized that approach was less effective.
“They wanted that quiet, dark, stoic guy for a long time,”
he said.
“But that only works when you’re running everybody over. There’s nothing scary about Michael Myers if you can walk up and kick him in the nuts.”
Now, Kross adopts a style that maintains an edge while allowing fans to relate to him more personally.
“I changed my cadence… I leaned into something that lets people connect a little more without losing the edge.”
Addressing False Reports About In-Ring Conduct
Kross strongly refuted recent online rumors claiming he refuses to take bumps during matches, calling those claims absurd and disrespectful to paying fans.
“People pay good money and give their time to watch this show,”
he said.
“I’m not going to turn it into a joke for some weird online subculture. I’m a professional—I’d never do that.”
Reflections on Opponents, Authenticity, and Industry Respect
Regarding his Night of Champions adversary Sami Zayn, Kross acknowledged his skill while questioning his sincerity within the wrestling world.
“He’s one of the best professional wrestlers of the last three generations,”
Kross said.
“It was a privilege to be in the ring with him.”
Yet, Kross expressed frustration over what he perceives as Zayn’s lack of authenticity.
“But he’s not a good guy… It really bothers me when people can tread through this business and collect opportunities while not being authentic. I find it really vile.”
In contrast, Kross praised John Cena’s recent heel turn, applauding Cena for his honesty and self-awareness.
“Everything people are watching now—I saw coming,”
Kross said.
“And I’m glad he’s being honest about who he is, unlike Sami.”
Expanding Creative Horizons Beyond the Ring
Outside WWE, Kross is preparing to release his memoir titled Life Is Fighting on August 5, aiming to connect with fans who, like him, lacked inspirational reading material growing up.
“It’s for a kid like me—who didn’t have a book like this growing up,”
Kross shared.
“It’s raw, darkly funny, and very honest.”
Moreover, Kross stars in the short independent film Blue Evening, which recently earned official selection status at the Burbank Film Festival, marking another step in his evolving creative career.
Karrion Kross’s Continuing Story in WWE
As both a wrestler and a creative artist, Karrion Kross exemplifies one of WWE’s most compelling narratives in 2025, with his fans playing a crucial part in shaping his journey and opportunities. His ongoing evolution signals exciting potential developments both inside and outside the squared circle.
