Karrion Kross recently disclosed that WWE provided him with a last-minute contract offer, granting only 24 hours to decide, while notably excluding his real-life wife and on-screen manager, Scarlett, from any proposal. This development comes after Kross became a free agent following the expiration of his contract on August 10, shortly after his final match at SummerSlam on August 2.
Details of Karrion Kross’s WWE Contract Negotiations
Karrion Kross explained his WWE departure and contract talks during a conversation with MMA journalist Ariel Helwani. He revealed that he did not receive an offer until late in the process, specifically just days before his contract expired. Upon receiving the proposal on a Tuesday, Kross sought clarity on how WWE determined the contract’s terms, requesting relevant data and analytics to make an informed decision.
When WWE declined to provide the requested information, Kross was given a strict 24-hour deadline to accept the offer or have it withdrawn. He then communicated that he could not accept without a clear understanding of the deal and attempted to keep negotiations open despite the tight timeline.
The truth of the matter is, my contract was up last week. I never actually received a contract offer until last week. I think it was Tuesday (the offer). I got the offer, and I wanted to know how they came to the valuation of that offer. Just wanted some information, metrics and analytics to explain ‘hey, this is how we got there’.
— Karrion Kross
When I inquired about that, they were unwilling to provide the information and told me I had 24 hours to reply to the offer or they would rescind it. So the next day we talk, I ask if they have the information. They don’t, and I said I can’t make an informed decision without the information and I’d like to keep the dialogue open.
— Karrion Kross
Kross has collaborated with Scarlett throughout his WWE tenure, with many fans feeling she deserved a more prominent role alongside him. Scarlett frequently played a critical part in his on-screen persona by calming him during his intense moments. Despite her contributions, WWE did not extend any offer to her amid Kross’s contract talks.
Nothing, she had nothing, there was no offer to her. I was told at one point ‘after we deal with you, we’ll deal with her’. I don’t know (if they were willing to offer her a separate contract). I don’t see why we couldn’t have done things the way we did before.
— Karrion Kross
Karrion Kross’s Journey Through WWE and His Recent Challenges
Karrion Kross joined WWE in February 2020 and quickly rose to prominence in the developmental brand NXT by becoming a top heel and winning the NXT Championship. However, his initial stint on the main roster during Vince McMahon’s leadership was marked by creative restrictions, which led to a disappointing run for both Kross and Scarlett. This resulted in their release in November 2021.
After returning in August 2022 with Triple H taking charge of creative decisions, the duo regained momentum, reconnecting with fans who admired their earlier NXT work. Kross was even given a stable called “The Final Testament,” though it failed to resonate broadly with audiences.
Determined to build his presence, Kross took to social media to promote himself through compelling promos, rekindling fan interest and eventually becoming a frequent target of “We Want Kross” chants during RAW shows and pay-per-views.
During the summer, Kross began a high-profile feud with Sami Zayn, attempting to persuade Zayn to join his darker philosophy. Despite this storyline, Kross suffered several losses against Zayn, including his last match at SummerSlam.
Triple H’s Promises and Their Impact on WWE Talent Relations
Since taking creative control, Triple H has made bold moves, including the unexpected return of CM Punk at Survivor Series 2023 in Chicago’s All State Arena, an event broadly celebrated by fans and critics. At a post-show press conference, Triple H conveyed a fan-centric approach to decision-making that appealed to many.
If our fans want it, if the WWE Universe is excited to have it, then let’s go, and we’ll figure out the rest of it from there.
— Triple H
This statement has been cited by fans calling attention to WWE’s inconsistent handling of performers such as Kross, whose departure contrasts with the company’s declared willingness to listen to its audience. During the summer months, social media was filled with chants and posts demanding more focus on Karrion Kross rather than other names, signaling a disconnect between WWE’s actions and the desires of its fanbase.
Significance of Karrion Kross’s Departure and Possible Future Developments
Karrion Kross’s exit, particularly under circumstances where contract negotiations were rushed and Scarlett excluded, highlights ongoing tensions within WWE’s management and talent relations. His popularity among fans, combined with perceived mishandling by the company, underscores the challenges WWE faces in balancing creative control and audience expectations.
As a free agent, Kross’s next steps could influence the wrestling landscape, whether he returns to WWE under different terms or explores opportunities elsewhere. Scarlett’s exclusion may also raise questions about the future of wrestling duos who depend on shared storylines and character dynamics.
The situation reveals the complexities behind contract negotiations in large entertainment organizations and may prompt WWE to reassess how it engages with top talent, especially those with strong fan followings. The wrestling world will be watching closely to see how the company addresses these issues moving forward.
