The world of professional wrestling is ever-changing, and WWE’s latest round of releases has once again sparked discussion about the company’s creative direction. With notable names like the Authors of Pain (AOP), their manager Paul Ellering, Cedric Alexander, and Blair Davenport reportedly no longer with WWE, speculation is running rampant about the future of certain talents—especially those known for their unique creative minds.
Vince Russo Sounds Off on WWE’s Creative Struggles
During a recent episode of BroDown on Backstage Pass, former WWE and WCW writer Vince Russo didn’t hold back when addressing the impact of these roster changes, particularly on stars like Karrion Kross. Known for his outspoken takes on the industry, Russo suggested that highly creative wrestlers often struggle within WWE’s system.
“If you’re a talent like a Kross, like a Bray Wyatt, if you’re a talent that’s smarter than the people you’re working for, you’re doomed. You’re doomed. And Kross is so creative that the creative team there cannot touch him. And, therefore, he comes across as knowing more than they do. Once they feel that way, you are absolutely doomed.”
His comments highlight a longstanding debate in WWE: how much control do superstars really have over their own characters? Kross, who has showcased a distinct persona and storytelling ability, now finds himself in a precarious position following the departure of AOP and Ellering.
The Fallout from WWE’s Latest Releases
One of the biggest surprises in this latest round of cuts was the release of AOP and Paul Ellering. The veteran manager had recently been reintroduced to television before WWE’s transfer window, which allows superstars to move between RAW and SmackDown.
Now, with AOP and Ellering gone, Karrion Kross and his wife Scarlett remain the only members of The Final Testament faction left standing on the RAW roster. This sudden shift leaves fans wondering what’s next for the duo and whether Triple H has long-term plans for them in WWE’s landscape.
What’s Next for Karrion Kross?
Karrion Kross, a former NXT Champion, has had a tumultuous journey on the main roster. After a rocky initial run, he returned under Triple H’s leadership, seemingly poised for a significant push. However, with frequent creative shifts and uncertainty within WWE’s booking, the question remains: will Kross thrive, or will he fall victim to the same issues Russo warned about?
His response to AOP and Ellering’s release suggests he is paying close attention to the changes around him. With the loss of key allies, will WWE find a new direction for Kross, or will he, too, be deemed surplus to requirements in the near future?
The Never-Ending Creative Debate in WWE
WWE’s creative team has long been criticized for not fully utilizing certain talents, especially those with intricate characters and storytelling abilities. Names like Bray Wyatt, Mustafa Ali, and even LA Knight have at times struggled to fit into the company’s vision.
If Russo’s take holds any weight, Kross might be facing an uphill battle—one where being too creative could be seen as a liability rather than an asset. For now, the wrestling world waits to see whether The Final Testament remains a significant force or fades away like so many other promising WWE acts.
While WWE’s latest cuts have left many talents in limbo, Karrion Kross still has a chance to carve out his legacy. Whether he’s able to break past the creative struggles that Russo described or not, one thing is certain: in the unpredictable world of professional wrestling, anything can happen.
As WWE continues to evolve, will creative freedom become more valued, or will stars like Kross continue to fight an uphill battle? Only time will tell.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.