Former WWE stars Karrion Kross and Scarlett Bordeaux have officially revealed their first in-ring booking since their WWE departure earlier this month. The couple will return to the squared circle on Sunday, September 21, at WrestlePro’s “Killer Smokeshow” event, held at the Rahway Recreation Center in Rahway, New Jersey[1][3][4].

Karrion Kross, whose real name is Killer Kross, alongside Scarlett Bordeaux had their contracts expire with WWE on August 10, 2025. Their final WWE appearance was at WWE SummerSlam where Kross was defeated by Sami Zayn in a high-profile singles match[1][2]. Since then, speculation surrounded their WWE status and what their next steps would be, sparking significant fan interest and chatter within wrestling circles.

WrestlePro Confirms Kross’ In-Ring Return

WrestlePro’s confirmation dispels early rumors that Kross and Scarlett’s appearances might only be signing events or non-wrestling appearances. The promotion announced on Instagram and Facebook that “Killer Smokeshow,” a new event scheduled for September 21, will see Karrion Kross actively competing, though the identity of his opponent has yet to be revealed. Scarlett Bordeaux will also appear alongside him, likely playing the manager or valet role that fans associate with her WWE run[3][4].

Kross himself took to his X (formerly Twitter) account to share the official poster and announce the match, writing: “Sunday, SEPTEMBER 21, Rahway NJ @WrestlePro • K I L L E R 🔪 S M O K E S H O W • See you soon. ⏳”[1].

Backstory on the WWE Departure

According to interviews and reports, including a candid conversation Kross had with Ariel Helwani on his show, Karrion Kross’s WWE contract expired without renewal. Although WWE offered a new deal shortly before the contract ended, it did not include one for Scarlett, who was integral to the Kross character’s presentation in WWE programming[2]. This exclusion reportedly played a significant role in the couple’s decision to part ways with WWE, meaning they left on their own terms but with some frustration about how Scarlett’s role was undervalued.

Industry insiders, including sources close to the wrestling business who spoke with The Wrestling Observer and Fightful, have commented on the high independent wrestling appearance rates being charged by Kross and Scarlett, fueling speculation on whether WWE’s parted ways are permanent or part of a more complex negotiation tactic[2]. Despite these rumors, Kross has firmly stated his WWE contract truly ended and that this WrestlePro booking marks a fresh start.

What This Means for Karrion Kross and Scarlett Bordeaux’s Wrestling Careers

Karrion Kross is widely regarded as an exceptionally talented performer, having held the NXT Championship and been featured prominently on WWE’s NXT brand prior to his main roster run. Scarlett Bordeaux, known for her charisma and skill as a manager and occasional in-ring competitor, is an added asset to his act that many fans and commentators felt WWE underutilized[5].

Their departure is viewed by many wrestling analysts as a significant loss for WWE’s creative roster. Both talents are expected to thrive on the independent scene and possibly other promotions looking to leverage their star power and distinct presentation. Their debut in WrestlePro is a notable step, showing they intend to remain active and relevant in the wrestling world. The Rahway event is also expected to generate significant buzz and ticket sales given the couple’s popularity post-WWE[3][4].

Fan and Industry Reaction

The wrestling fan base has reacted warmly to the news of Kross and Scarlett’s upcoming WrestlePro match, with many expressing excitement about seeing the pair perform live again outside the WWE umbrella. Social media chatter underscores a strong curiosity about who will be Kross’s opponent and what kind of match style the “Final Testament” star will adopt on the indie level.

Wrestling journalists covering WWE and the independent wrestling scene, including those at Sportskeeda, Ringside News, and Last Word On Sports, interpret this match announcement as a sign that Karrion Kross and Scarlett plan to actively rebuild their reputation and momentum in the wrestling circuit, reinforcing their versatility and marketability beyond WWE[1][4][5].

Looking Ahead

While much remains unknown—especially regarding their future opponents and potential signings with other promotions—the confirmed date and location present a concrete milestone marking the beginning of a new chapter for Karrion Kross and Scarlett Bordeaux.

Tickets for the “Killer Smokeshow” at WrestlePro go on sale soon, with meet-and-greet opportunities scheduled for the afternoon before the bell rings at 6 PM. Fans eager to witness the duo live can expect a compelling and must-see event that blends Kross’s dark, intense ring style with Scarlett’s evolving role as a wrestling personality[3].

According to sources close to the duo, this WrestlePro event is just the beginning, and Kross and Scarlett are looking to capitalize on their freedom from WWE obligations by taking greater control over their careers and creative directions.

This article is based on the latest reports from credible wrestling news outlets such as Sportskeeda, Ringside News, and The Wrestling Observer; statements from Karrion Kross on his social media; and industry insider information following their WWE contract expirations in August 2025.