Chris Wright, also known as CROS ONE, has been deeply embedded in Hip Hop culture for over 35 years. His journey began in the 1980s, when the iconic Run DMC cassette hit his boombox, sparking a passion that would shape his life. Throughout the ’80s and ’90s, he immersed himself in breaking, tagging, and spray-can art—an era that also gave birth to his name, CROS ONE.
In 1997, CROS ONE organized his first Freestyle Session in San Diego, California, marking the start of a legacy. He went on to co-found Out For Fame in 2000, the first National Championship Breaking Tour. In 2002, he teamed up with fellow local DJs to launch the Armory Hip Hop Shop, a hub for local parties and concerts that continues to thrive today.
Now in its 28th year, Freestyle Session has grown into one of the most influential Hip Hop events in North America, thanks to CROS ONE and his business partner, Polo Molina, of Grassroots Productions. The event has expanded globally, reaching over 40 countries, including Japan, South Korea, Russia, and Brazil.
CROS ONE’s influence extends beyond breaking. He supports all elements of Hip Hop culture, from street art and fashion to DJing and MCing. His collaborations with major events like Soundset, Bumbershoot, Rock the Bells, and Scribble Jam, as well as international initiatives like the Urban Games (UK) and Nike Freestyle Summer (South Korea), have helped elevate the scene worldwide.
In 2014, CROS ONE co-founded UDEF and the Pro Breaking Tour with Steve Graham (aka Bboy Silverback), further solidifying his impact. The Pro Breaking Tour has since sponsored over 150 events globally and awarded over $1 million in prize money.
A board member of the Youth Olympic Committee, CROS ONE has played a vital role in advocating for breaking’s inclusion in the Olympics. He served as a judge in the qualification events and as a commentator for the Paris 2024 Olympic qualifiers, where the top 16 male and female competitors were determined.
As a promoter, CROS ONE’s dedication to preserving and advancing breaking and Hip Hop culture remains unwavering. True to the spirit of RUN DMC’s words, “I won’t stop rockin’ ’til I retire,” CROS ONE continues to push the culture forward and inspire the next generation of artists and dancers.
This year, CROS ONE is set to join the UK B-Boy Champs as one of the hosts, bringing his wealth of experience and passion to the global stage.