On August 10, 2025, Karrion Kross’s WWE contract officially expired, marking the end of his current tenure with the company alongside his real-life partner Scarlett. The duo was promptly moved to WWE’s alumni section on WWE.com, signaling their departure from the active roster. In a revealing new video documentary titled The Killer and through subsequent interviews, Kross shared his deep disappointment and frustration regarding how WWE handled his contract negotiations, despite his clear desire to remain with the company[1][4][5].
Contract Status Confirmed by Karrion Kross
Kross confirmed the expiration of his deal in part two of The Killer documentary, produced by Devin Tong and released on his YouTube channel. He explicitly stated, “My contract is up August 10th” and candidly discussed feelings of confusion and stress surrounding the negotiation process. He indicated that he had expressed interest in renegotiating his contract as far back as January but felt that WWE’s response was lacking and inconsistent with his commitment to the company.
He said, “I expressed interest to renegotiate in early January with WWE. Like I think it’s crazy. It’s preposterous that anyone would think I wouldn’t want to be here or like go somewhere else… I’m fully committed. I’m here”[1][4]. Kross’s remarks underscore a painful disconnect between his loyalty and WWE’s handling of his contract talks.
Reports of a Negotiation Breakdown and Lack of Communication
Multiple outlets, including Fightful Select, WrestlingHeadlines, and Sports Illustrated, have reported that WWE did not issue the usual advance notice or extension effort typically given before a contract expiration under the current regime. Insiders revealed that Kross and Scarlett were removed from WWE’s internal roster system on the same day their contracts expired, which is highly unusual given WWE’s usual proactive approach to contract renewals[2][3][4].
According to Fightful Select, there was no clear offer made to Kross and Scarlett before their contracts ended, and both talent were initially booked for WWE’s Monday Night RAW but had their travel plans unexpectedly canceled. This sudden change further fueled speculation about WWE’s intentions and the behind-the-scenes uncertainty concerning Kross’s future[3].
Kross’s Desire to Stay in WWE
Throughout the documentary and in recent public appearances, Kross repeatedly emphasized his desire to continue his WWE career. He openly stated, “What I would like to happen, I would love to stay with WWE. I would love, ideally, to finish my career there, I really would. I don’t know what’s going to happen though”[4]. Despite his frustration, his words show hope and commitment towards the company that elevated him to mainstream wrestling prominence.
Fan and Insider Reactions
Fans have rallied around Kross with the hashtag movement #WeWantKross, reminiscent of past notable grassroots WWE fan campaigns, indicating strong public support for his continued presence in the company. His recent sharp feud with Sami Zayn and his polished promo work have increased his popularity, making his uncertain status even more noticeable at live WWE events, including SummerSlam[5].
Backstage sources reveal that the expiration took some WWE talents by surprise, as the company has generally maintained a policy of early contract discussions. One top talent expressed hope that Kross and Scarlett would find a way to stay, citing Kross as a valuable asset creatively and in the ring[3].
Potential Outside Options and WWE’s Business Landscape
Industry insiders acknowledge that Kross and Scarlett’s options outside WWE may be limited. Their previous work with Impact Wrestling (formerly TNA) ended on a sour note, though new management and partnerships involving WWE’s relationships with other promotions may have opened doors previously closed. Kross also has ties to independent promotions such as GCW and MLW, and has appeared in NJPW STRONG in the recent past, but the wrestling landscape after WWE departure can be uncertain compared to years ago[3].
Karrion Kross’s Recent Commentary and Public Statements
Kross addressed misinformation swirling around his contract situation during a recent appearance on The Two Man Power Trip of Wrestling Podcast, where he maintained, “I’m still under contract,” and declined to engage with rumors. Yet, by August 10, his contract had indeed expired, confirming earlier reports by Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select and others[2][4].
Kross also described the emotional and psychological toll this contract limbo has taken on him. In his documentary, he admitted to feeling “fucked” and navigating a “very strange” timeline in his career, referencing moments after WrestleMania and his Sam Roberts podcast appearance that seemingly shifted his professional trajectory in uncertain ways[4].
What’s Next for Karrion Kross?
As of the current date, Karrion Kross is a free agent, with his future in professional wrestling yet to be determined. Fans, insiders, and industry analysts alike will be watching closely to see if WWE and Kross can come to terms, or if this marks the beginning of a new chapter outside the WWE umbrella.
Sources close to the star indicate ongoing discussions with multiple parties, but nothing concrete has emerged publicly. Given his blend of charisma, in-ring skills, and fan support, Kross remains one of the most compelling free agents in modern pro wrestling.
Final Thoughts
Karrion Kross’s contract expiration and his forthcoming status highlight common struggles wrestlers face with WWE contract negotiations—issues of communication, commitment, and talent management. His transparent airing of frustrations offers a rare glimpse into the complexities behind the curtain.
As Kross himself emphasized, “There isn’t a world that exists where I don’t think I’ve ever made that so entirely clear” regarding his commitment to WWE, making the stalled negotiations all the more poignant[1].
This article is based on reporting from WWE.com, Fightful Select, WrestlingInc, 411Mania, WrestlingHeadlines, and direct quotes from Karrion Kross’s documentary and podcast appearances.