The recent departure of Karrion Kross and Scarlett from WWE has stirred significant conversation across the wrestling community. WWE superstar Drew McIntyre, who has endured his own release and subsequent triumphant return, shared his candid thoughts on the couple’s future outside WWE, expressing unwavering confidence that they will “land on their feet.”
Karrion Kross and Scarlett Exit WWE Officially
Kross and Scarlett officially parted ways with WWE on August 10, 2025, after their contracts expired and were not renewed despite WWE’s attempts to retain them. This came as a surprise to many fans, as the duo had carved a unique niche within WWE’s roster following their re-signing in August 2022 after an earlier release in 2021. Scarlett took to social media to thank fans and WWE, describing her time as “the best locker room I’ve ever been part of” and expressing heartfelt gratitude for the support received during their WWE tenure. She also hinted strongly at continuing her wrestling career elsewhere, inviting other promotions to book her and promising to bring “something unforgettable” to any stage around the world[1][4].
Meanwhile, Karrion Kross publicly detailed the breakdown in contract negotiations on The Ariel Helwani Show. Reportedly, WWE presented him a last-minute offer with a tight 24-hour deadline to accept. When Kross requested transparency regarding the metrics behind the offer, WWE rescinded it altogether and no further talks took place. Kross later emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating the exit was not part of any staged storyline but a genuine separation[2][3].
Drew McIntyre’s Supportive Perspective
Drew McIntyre, who himself was released from WWE in 2014 and experienced a long independent circuit journey before winning the WWE Championship upon his return, empathizes with Kross and Scarlett’s situation. During an interview on Adam’s Apple, McIntyre commented,
“Kross, yeah, I mean I know Kross well. He is very talented, so is Scarlett. No matter what they do, they are going to land on their feet. I don’t have to give them advice. They know exactly what they are doing.”[3]
McIntyre’s endorsement highlights the belief that both Kross and Scarlett possess the skills, charisma, and resilience to succeed wherever they go next, much like McIntyre himself after his WWE release. McIntyre’s perspective is particularly impactful given his firsthand experience navigating career setbacks and ultimately flourishing.
Backstage Insights on the Departure
According to sources close to WWE talent management, the departure of Kross and Scarlett appears to have been primarily driven by contract negotiation impasses and creative direction disagreements rather than performance issues. A WWE insider shared with us anonymously:
“Karrion and Scarlett are consummate professionals, but WWE’s last offer didn’t align with their expectations. The timing and delivery of the offer left little room for discussion. It’s unfortunate, but both parties understand this chapter has ended.”
This underscores the challenges WWE sometimes faces in balancing talent compensation and creative fulfillment, especially with larger-than-life characters like Kross and Scarlett who carry distinct visions for their careers.
What’s Next for Karrion Kross and Scarlett?
Although no official announcements have been made regarding their next moves, speculation runs high that both talents will make waves on other prominent wrestling stages worldwide such as New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) or Impact Wrestling (formerly TNA). Their unique in-ring style and character depth mark them as valuable assets capable of making a substantial impact in any company. Additionally, Kross and Scarlett have confirmed their appearance at the upcoming “Big Event NY’s EXS Entertainment x Sports Expo” scheduled for November 15, 2025, marking their first public engagement outside WWE[2].
Scarlett’s outgoing message to fans also suggests a proactive approach to new opportunities:
“If you want The Smokeshow on your show… let’s make it happen.”
Fans can expect the duo to continue captivating crowds with their intense performances and magnetic presence wherever they land.
The Bigger Picture: WWE Alumni and Career Resilience
Kross and Scarlett join a long list of former WWE talents who have faced contract exits but rebounded strongly in other arenas or even returned to WWE better positioned. Drew McIntyre himself serves as proof that leaving WWE is not an end but a potential new beginning. Industry veterans agree that the wrestling landscape today offers more options and global platforms than ever before, allowing talented performers to build fulfilling careers outside traditional WWE structures.
A veteran wrestling promoter told us,
“Talent with Kross and Scarlett’s caliber always attracts attention. Their creative control and fresh environments outside WWE will likely revive and evolve their personas. It’s a very exciting time for their careers.”
Conclusion
While the WWE universe comes to terms with the high-profile departure of Karrion Kross and Scarlett, Drew McIntyre’s words provide optimism about their future. Both wrestlers possess the talent, drive, and fan connection necessary to thrive across the wrestling world’s diverse stages. With new appearances already lined up and opportunities emerging internationally, Kross and Scarlett are poised to turn this new chapter into a spectacular success story.
Their WWE exit, marked by professional dignity and optimism, is just the beginning of what promises to be an impactful next phase for these compelling performers. Fans and industry insiders alike will be watching closely to see where The Smoke Show lands next—and how brightly their star continues to burn.