Karrion Kross, the former two-time NXT Champion, recently opened up about his passion for a specific style of pro-wrestling. In a recent interview on the Undisputed Podcast with host Bobby Fish, Kross discussed his journey to WWE and the type of wrestling that has always resonated with him.
Growing up in a family of amateur wrestlers and boxing enthusiasts, Kross was drawn to pro wrestling that combined theatrics with legitimate combat sports. He mentioned watching his favorite superheroes in WWF/WWE on TV and later discovering promotions like ECW and All Japan, which showcased a similar style. Kross found the blend of theatrics and realistic fighting techniques to be captivating and more devastating in the ring.
As he began his training as a wrestler, Kross knew he wanted to incorporate elements of this style into his performances. He believed that it would not only appeal to him but also to other athletes and individuals with a legitimate background in combat sports. Kross wanted to create a unique experience for the audience by showcasing moves that looked both impressive and authentic.
During his time on the independent circuit, Kross developed a character that aligned perfectly with his shoot style moveset. He portrayed a hitman-slash-serial killer, often serving as someone’s heater or targeting specific individuals. Kross acknowledged the limitations of the independent wrestling scene, with its short budget and lack of commercialized backing. However, he relied on his own mic skills and in-ring abilities to connect with the audience who shared his love for this style of wrestling.
When Kross made the transition to WWE, he recognized the need to adapt to the story-based nature of the company. He understood that his shoot fighter persona alone wouldn’t be sufficient. Instead, he embraced the process of creating a larger-than-life character and presentation. Kross had several conversations with WWE executive Paul “Triple H” Levesque to explore the possibilities and find the best way to showcase his unique style within the company’s framework.
In a separate interview, Kross also expressed his admiration for the Bloodline Civil War match at Money In The Bank, calling it one of the best matches he has ever seen. To read more about his thoughts on the match, you can visit Wrestling Headlines.
Karrion Kross’s journey from the independents to WWE has been shaped by his passion for pro wrestling that marries theatrics with combat sports. His background in amateur wrestling and boxing, coupled with his love for larger-than-life characters, has influenced his unique in-ring style. As Kross continues to make his mark in the world of professional wrestling, fans can expect him to deliver captivating performances that showcase his love for this particular blend of athleticism and storytelling.
Sources:
– Undisputed Podcast with Bobby Fish
– Wrestling Headlines (Bloodline Civil War match interview)
This article was originally published on Wrestling Headlines.