Ilja Dragunov To AEW Rumours Intensify - WWE NOT Interested In Resigning Him (AEW News)
WWE won't be bringing Ilja Dragunov back, but AEW remains interested in 'Mad Dragon'.
WrestleVotes on Fightful Select reports that WWE won't be bringing Ilja Dragunov back into the fold after his recent departure. It's believed that this isn't "a short-term departure like Bronson Reed and Baron Corbin's year and a half away from WWE before returning". There just isn't any interest.
Enter AEW.
An All Elite source told WrestleVotes/Fightful that management "will inquire" about the possibility of booking Dragunov in some form or fashion soon. If that prospective appearance goes well, then who knows? Maybe the 'Mad Dragon' will earn himself a full time AEW contract. His workhorse style would certainly suit the promotion.
It's interesting to hear from WWE's side that they're done with Ilja though. He was pushed pretty hard last year when beating Sami Zayn for the United States Title, and his weekly showings on SmackDown became a highlight of Friday nights. Then, suddenly, Dragunov dropped the US gold to Carmelo Hayes in December, and Ilja was totally de-emphasised as a key part of the blue brand.
He was also completely brushed off by Brock Lesnar during this year's Royal Rumble match, and some point to that as the true beginning of his slide towards the WWE exit doors. Tony Khan could offer Dragunov a new home, which would be a win for the hardworking and intense star.
He'd be able to make some good money in AEW, and surefire bangers against the likes of Kenny Omega, MJF, Will Ospreay and more would be waiting for him. Nothing is guaranteed for now, but there is some interest at least.