WWE Legend Possibly Dealing With Karrion Kross-Like Backstage Situation 

Karrion Kross’s WWE release on August 10, 2025, quietly marked the end of a controversial chapter. After his contract expired, Kross and his wife, Scarlett, were moved to WWE’s alumni section, ending speculation and sparking debates about their futures.

The decision surprised many fans, given Kross’s talent and recent high-profile matches, including a notable feud with Sami Zayn culminating at SummerSlam. Despite some reports suggesting contract negotiations, WWE chose not to renew, reportedly due to financial and creative considerations.

Karrion Kross quickly reverted to his former ring name, Killer Kross, signaling a fresh start outside WWE. The handling of his departure opened conversations about how WWE currently manages talent contracts and backstage dynamics amidst budget priorities and new corporate deals.

Natalya’s Possibly Facing Similar Issues As Karrion Kross

Veteran WWE star Natalya might be experiencing backstage challenges similar to Karrion Kross’s exit. On the Behind The Turnbuckle Studios podcast, Jonathan Coachman shared insights that Natalya could be in a tough spot related to WWE’s current financial and creative mindset.

He explained that the WWE, under new management and costly partnerships like those with UFC and Paramount, is scrutinizing every dollar spent. Coachman suggested WWE’s value assessment for talents like Natalya leads to offers far below their expectations.

This creates a tough choice for wrestlers: accept less money or leave. But for someone like Natalya, long-tenured but near the twilight of her WWE career, the options outside WWE, paying six figures, are limited without grinding the independent scene weekly.

“She might be dealing with a situation like Karrion Kross. We are talking about like it’s still the Vince McMahon-led WWE. There are so many different factors at play that we all have to understand. First and foremost, it’s money, and right now every dollar they save is a dollar they can put towards that 6 billion. They just signed a big deal with UFC and Paramount. They already have their cash.”

“So why would they pay Karrion Kross or Natalia if they believe that if Natalia wanted, let’s say, $500,000, and they’re like, ‘Nope, she’s only worth 200 to us.’ So she’s gonna take it or leave it, and that is what they’re doing with a lot of talents, and unless you’ve got the stones or you have the ability to go somewhere else… Where else at this point in her career is Natalya gonna go and earn six figures in wrestling and not have to grind it out on the indies every single weekend to get to that same number?” (9:45 – 10:47)

Natalya’s recent WWE run has been underwhelming compared to her earlier career highlights. She has shifted focus partially to independent promotions like NWA and GCW, seeking fresh opportunities while balancing sporadic WWE appearances.

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