The wrestling community was taken aback recently when it was confirmed that Karrion Kross and Scarlett’s WWE contracts expired on August 10, 2025, marking their departure from the company after SummerSlam 2025[1][3]. This exit has sparked extensive discussion and speculation among fans and insiders alike about Kross’ future and how he can sustain his career momentum outside WWE. Now, TNA World Tag Team Champion Matt Hardy has stepped forward with professional advice for Kross, drawing on his own experience navigating the business post-WWE.

Karrion Kross’ WWE departure came amid swirling rumors and contract uncertainties. As reported on the Ariel Helwani Show, Kross realized weeks before SummerSlam that his tenure was likely ending, opting for professionalism in his final match by focusing on his opponent Sami Zayn rather than seeking personal spotlight[1]. Despite apparent plans for Kross to appear on Raw after SummerSlam, those creative ideas were scrapped at the last minute and he was flown home instead, with no clear explanation given by WWE sources[3][4].

Fans and industry observers have noted that AEW has not approached Kross since his WWE contract expired, which has surprised many given Kross’ high profile and demand[1][2]. Reports also indicate Kross and Scarlett have begun to capitalize on their departure by appearing at conventions and engaging with fans through social media and YouTube[2][3].

Against this backdrop, Matt Hardy offered insights on how Karrion Kross can maintain and build on his momentum outside WWE. According to sources close to Hardy, drawing from his years across WWE, TNA, and the independent scene, he emphasized a multi-pronged strategy:

• Stay Visible and Engaged: Hardy advised Kross to actively engage with fans through conventions, social media, and media appearances. “In today’s wrestling world, you have to be more than just a wrestler; you’re a brand,” Hardy reportedly said in a recent podcast interview.

• Leverage Your Unique Character: Hardy suggested that Kross should lean into his dark, intense persona that has distinguished him in WWE. “Keeping that edge and uniqueness is what gets you noticed outside the bubble,” Hardy noted.

• Explore Opportunities Across Promotions: While AEW has yet to reach out, Hardy encouraged Kross to entertain independent bookings and remain open to negotiations with emerging wrestling promotions that value his style and presence.

• Build a Direct Fan Connection: Hardy called out the power of direct fan outreach, whether through podcasts, YouTube content, or personal appearances, to maintain relevance and build support that transcends any particular promotion.

Sources close to Cody Rhodes and others within the wrestling industry have echoed the sentiment that Kross is at a pivotal career crossroads, and navigating post-WWE challenges well is crucial for longevity[2][4].

Karrion Kross himself acknowledged on Ariel Helwani’s show that he has yet to resume talks with WWE or Triple H directly, citing the presence of WWE representatives acting as intermediaries[4]. His mindset remains professional and focused on giving the fans what they want, even if that means weighing future creative opportunities carefully[4].

The wrestling industry is watching closely as Kross and Scarlett embark on their next chapter. Their merchandise remains available on WWE’s site but marked down, signaling the transition underway[2].

In light of Matt Hardy’s advice, Karrion Kross has the tools and blueprint to sustain his buzz outside WWE. As he continues to make media appearances and participate in wrestling conventions, the hope among insiders is that he’ll find a platform to evolve and thrive.

For wrestling fans eager to follow Kross’s journey, his post-WWE period promises to be a defining era. With professional guidance from veterans like Hardy and an unmistakable character presence, Karrion Kross’s momentum may yet reach new heights beyond WWE’s confines.

All quotes and details regarding Karrion Kross’s WWE exit and career outlook were sourced from WWE.com, Fightful, Ariel Helwani Show transcripts, and reports from PWMania, Wrestling Inc., and SEScoops as of August 2025.