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By Andrew Ravens
Contributing Sports Writer
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The saga of Karrion Kross's WWE contract has taken another stunning turn. In a new, tell-all interview with Ariel Helwani, Kross has provided a detailed, blow-by-blow account of his failed negotiations, confirming he is a free agent but maintaining that he and his wife, Scarlett, still want to return to WWE.
His comments, which he stressed were "legit" and not in character, provide the clearest picture yet of the chaotic situation. His WWE contract officially expired this past Sunday, August 10th.
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A "Profoundly Disappointing" Negotiation
Kross revealed that after weeks of uncertainty, he finally received a contract offer from WWE just last week. He explained that he asked the company for the data and analytics they used to determine their financial offer, but was told they were "unwilling to provide that information."
He was then given a 24-hour deadline to accept the deal. When he reiterated that he could not make an "informed decision" without the data but wanted to keep the dialogue open, WWE rescinded the offer. "That's actually where we're at," he concluded. He also confirmed a separate offer was not made for Scarlett, as WWE wanted to sign him first.
"We Still Want To Be There"
Despite the messy exit, Kross made it clear that his goal has always been to remain with WWE. He stated that he is speaking out now because the confusion surrounding his status is affecting his ability to get work elsewhere, as other promotions are hesitant to contact him, fearing contract tampering.
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"The goal has always been to be with WWE. My wife and I still want to be with WWE," Kross declared. "I'm at the table for conversations. I did not step out of the conversation. You know what I mean? We still want to be there. We still want to work it out."
Is The "Work" a "Shoot"?
Kross's detailed, business-like explanation seems to be a direct attempt to end the fan speculation that his departure is an elaborate storyline, or a "work." WWE recently used legitimate-seeming news reports about R-Truth's contract to create a successful on-screen angle, which has led many to believe Kross's situation was a repeat of that tactic.
However, his candid comments about the situation affecting his livelihood and his clear desire to return to the company paint the picture of a legitimate, and very public, contract dispute. Kross has now laid all his cards on the table, putting the ball firmly back in WWE's court.
More WWE News:
- Released WWE Superstar Retires From Pro Wrestling
- Released WWE Star Breaks Silence On Departure
- Released WWE Star Wants To Join AEW
For more on WWE, head to Newsweek Sports.
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