Highlights

  • Karrion Kross forms a formidable faction with the Authors of Pain, managed by Paul Ellering and Scarlett, called "The Final Testament."
  • The name change adds credibility and excitement to the union, and the presence of the Authors of Pain brings the muscle and intensity that Kross may have needed.
  • The upcoming rivalry between "The Pride" (Bobby Lashley and The Street Profits) and "The Final Testament" could be a fascinating narrative, especially if a trios division or trios titles are introduced. The goal is to push Kross into a singles title with the backing of his faction.

On the January 5 episode of SmackDown, Karrion Kross orchestrated a brutal assault on Bobby Lashley and The Street Profits, introducing the WWE Universe to the formidable team of himself and the Authors of Pain, managed by Paul Ellering and Scarlett. The faction has reportedly (or at least is rumored) to been christened "The Final Testament," as per a recent trademark filed by WWE.

The report of the new name comes from Randall Ortman of Cageside Seats. As for what the name means, it seems to align with Kross's "harbinger of doom" style promos and reflecting a sense of unity within the group. WWE's decision to trademark the name suggests a genuine intent to push Kross and his associates as a formidable force, a departure from the challenges Kross faced since his main roster debut in 2021. Many will argue Kross hasn't been pushed to his full potential. The hope is that this group changes that.

Not everyone is sold that this union will be a huge success, but an official name change gives it more credibility. The unexpected return of Authors of Pain to WWE brings an air of excitement and their presence adds the muscle and intensity Kross may have needed.

Notably, the upcoming rivalry clarifies the newfound babyface status of Lashley and The Street Profits, rumored to be called "The Pride." With that said, The Pride vs. The Final Testament should be a potentially fasincating narrative, especially if WWE chooses to introduce a trios division or trios titles.

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How Far Will The Final Testament Go In WWE?

As The Final Testament emerges as a force to be reckoned with, the SmackDown brand braces for the clash between these powerhouse factions. The ripple effects of Kross's calculated maneuvers -- which appear now to have been shaping themselves over multiple months -- are retelling his story, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and uncertainty on Friday nights. Will the faction get the push or will Kross as its leader?

If WWE is really building up factions, the names for Lashley and Kross' groups make sense. If the company simply wants to use groups to elevate the leaders, the long-term goal here is to push Kross into a singles title with The Final Testament backing him up.