The ongoing Sami Zayn vs Karrion Kross feud is set to intensify as the two WWE Superstars square off at the upcoming Night of Champions event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on June 28. Kross has publicly revealed his reasons for pursuing Zayn, accusing him of living a double life and setting the stage for a highly charged encounter.
Karrion Kross Reveals Motive Behind Targeting Sami Zayn
Ahead of their high-stakes match, Karrion Kross, a former NXT Champion known for his aggressive persona, has explained why he singled out Sami Zayn as a rival. Zayn, often seen as the “Underdog from the Underground,” recently suffered a significant defeat against Randy Orton on SmackDown, which cost him a place in the King of the Ring Tournament final. Shortly after his loss, Kross confronted the veteran wrestler during RAW, questioning Zayn’s credibility and declaring that he would never reach the coveted World Champion status. Sami Zayn, refusing to back down, responded forcefully and confirmed that he accepted Kross’s challenge for the Night of Champions Premium Live Event.
During the event‘s Kickoff Show, Karrion Kross expressed strong feelings about Zayn’s character, accusing him of hiding behind a false persona. Kross, referencing the past actions of the former Intercontinental Champion, challenged the authenticity of his “good guy” image and voiced his resentment towards Zayn’s supposed deception.

“I always targeted you for one simple reason. It’s because I believe that you are a liar! I think this whole thing of you being a good guy is a charade because I’ve seen you do terrible, terrible things to people. And if there’s one thing that I hate most in this world, is a liar,” he said. —Karrion Kross, WWE Superstar
Victory at Night of Champions Would Prove Kross’s Point
Continuing his pointed remarks during the Night of Champions Kickoff Show, Karrion Kross made it clear that his goal extends beyond just a win in the ring. He openly predicted a decisive victory over Zayn, describing the moment he intends to secure the three-count and earn validation in front of the WWE audience and officials.
Kross emphasized that defeating Zayn would not only settle their rivalry but also serve as public proof of his claims about Zayn’s character. He believes that scoring a pinfall triumph over Zayn would finally convince everyone of the truth and clear any doubts about his own honesty regarding his adversary.
“Sami, tomorrow night at Night of Champions, when I’m standing across from you, I’m going to put my arm through the back of your head. And the referee is going to count 1, 2, 3, and in that moment, I’ll get the validation that I deserve. Everyone will know, I’ve always told the truth, especially about you,” he added. —Karrion Kross, WWE Superstar
Anticipation Grows Ahead of Night of Champions Clash
WWE fans are closely watching the developments as the rivalry between Karrion Kross and Sami Zayn reaches its peak at Night of Champions. With Zayn under scrutiny for his past actions and Kross determined to expose what he views as hypocrisy, their upcoming bout is being billed as a test of truth and reputation. The outcome in Riyadh could shift both men’s trajectories in WWE, with potential repercussions on future title opportunities and personal legacies. As the anticipation builds, the spotlight will be on the ring to see which Superstar emerges victorious and whether Kross’s words are confirmed under the lights of one of WWE’s most prominent stages.