The uncertainty surrounding Karrion Kross and Scarlett’s WWE contract status has created substantial buzz backstage, with many inside WWE believing the ongoing drama is not a genuine contract dispute but rather an elaborate storyline angle orchestrated by WWE. According to a new report from Wrestling Observer, several wrestlers and insiders within the WWE locker room suspect that the company is deliberately keeping details of Kross and Scarlett’s situation vague as part of a larger creative plan to build intrigue around their futures in the company[3].

Contract Expiry Confirmation and Public Statements

Karrion Kross himself confirmed in a recent video documentary episode titled “The Killer”, released on his YouTube channel, that his WWE contract officially ended on August 10, 2025. During the documentary, Kross expressed frustration over the slow and confusing negotiation process, revealing that he had requested renegotiation talks as early as January 2025 but felt those discussions stalled without clear outcome[1][4]. He makes it clear he would love to remain a part of WWE, saying:

“I’d love ideally to finish my career there. I really would. I don’t know what’s going to happen though.”
— Karrion Kross, The Killer documentary[1][4]

Despite Kross’s openness about his desire to stay, his contract expiry was followed by both him and Scarlett being removed from WWE’s active roster, appearing instead in the alumni section on WWE.com, a traditional sign that a talent has parted ways with the company[4].

Allegations of a Possible WWE ‘Angle’ and Timing Suspicion

Sources close to WWE indicate that many in the locker room view the contract saga surrounding Kross and Scarlett as a potential worked angle designed to add narrative drama and perhaps build anticipation for a future storyline or return. Notably, their WWE travel for a recent RAW was canceled at the last minute, even though Kross’s match footage against Sami Zayn was aired. Intriguingly, a key storyline moment—where Kross was supposed to admit he was wrong about Zayn—never aired, raising further questions about the true nature of their departure or hiatus[3].

Inside sources told Wrestling Observer that unlike typical contract negotiations where WWE proactively alerts talent well before contract expirations, Kross and Scarlett were left in the dark with no formal renewal offer or clear communication, which surprised many backstage talents accustomed to the company’s usual practices[3]. This unusual communication breakdown fed speculation that the entire matter might be part of a storyline angle rather than a real contract dispute.

Industry Perspectives: Contract Status and Potential Moves

While WWE insiders and talent have voiced their suspicions of an angle, outside reports highlight that Kross and Scarlett are now openly accepting bookings on the independent circuit. Scarlett posted heartfelt messages reflecting on their WWE tenure, calling it “the best locker room” she has been part of, and both are reportedly open to wrestling engagements beyond WWE at this juncture[5]. Kross tweeted:

“Hey… life is fighting, right? Now accepting bookings: [email protected]. See you all again soon.”[5]

This move towards outside bookings perhaps signals the start of their free agent status, even if WWE’s official stance remains ambiguous or strategically unclear.

Contract Negotiation Dynamics and WWE’s Approach

Fightful Select and other investigative outlets have revealed that Kross and Scarlett’s contracts, signed in 2022, expired without the customary extension talks or renewal notices that WWE generally provides well ahead of time. One top talent expressed hope backstage that the couple remains with WWE amid the uncertainty, a testament to their perceived value within the locker room[3].

Kross addressed the rumors and misinformation in various interviews and podcasts recently, including The Two Man Power Trip of Wrestling Podcast, where he confirmed he was still under contract at that moment but hinted that clarity on their status would be forthcoming soon[2].

WWE Creative and Business Context

The timing of this contract saga comes amid a period of significant roster management and talent shakeups within WWE. Backstage reports confirm WWE’s ownership stake in various promotions such as AAA and ongoing partnerships with Impact Wrestling (formerly TNA), which could complicate the couple’s wrestling options outside WWE. Historically, Kross and Scarlett had unpleasant exits from certain companies, but changed management and partnerships might open doors despite past difficulties[3].

Creative decisions also appear to be influenced by Kross’s current position in WWE storylines. The fact WWE aired his match following reports of his contract expiration while canceling his scheduled travel and omitting key storyline beats adds to the sense this situation is unorthodox and potentially scripted to manage fan perception.

Implications for WWE and Karrion Kross’s Career

Whether a legitimate contract dispute or a storyline angle, the Karrion Kross contract situation shines a light on WWE’s evolving approach to talent contracts and public communication. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if Kross and Scarlett will re-sign with WWE or make an impactful splash on the independent scene or other major promotions.

Kross’s candid commentary in his documentary and interviews reflects a wrestler passionate about his craft and eager to remain in WWE, yet mindful of the uncertainty surrounding contract negotiations:

“Things are weird. Things are not bad, things are just very strange… I can’t really say what’s gonna happen next.”[4]

Looking Ahead

With Kross and Scarlett now accepting bookings and WWE seemingly quiet on official announcements, the next few weeks could clarify whether the situation was indeed an angle or the start of a new chapter outside WWE. Wrestling media outlets like Fightful, Wrestling Observer, and podcasts remain key sources to watch for insider updates.

According to a WWE insider, “The company loves building suspense with its stars, and Karrion’s case feels like one of those rare moments where the line between reality and fiction is blurred intentionally. Everyone in the locker room is circling their bets.”[3]

For now, fans should prepare for possible surprises regarding Karrion Kross and Scarlett’s WWE status as the story unfolds—whether as a storyline twist or a real-life contract saga.

For quotes from Karrion Kross, credit his YouTube channel with a hat-tip to 411mania.com. For contract details and backstage reports, references include Wrestling Observer, Fightful Select, Wrestling Headline, and Cultaholic.