WWE has significant plans for Ilja Dragunov following his return to the ring after a torn ACL injury sustained in September 2024 at a WWE Live Event against Gunther. The company is exploring new rivalries to reintroduce Dragunov, also known as The Mad Dragon, to its television audience.
One notable storyline in discussion involves a feud between Dragunov and Rusev, a former WWE star who recently returned after a challenging period in All Elite Wrestling (AEW). According to wrestling journalist Cory Hays of BodySlam, this rivalry remains speculative but is considered a compelling way to rebuild Dragunov’s presence on WWE programming.
Rusev’s Recent WWE Momentum and Dragunov’s Career Moves
Rusev, now competing under his real name after previously wrestling as Miro in AEW, has garnered renewed attention since his WWE return earlier this year. His recent victory over Sheamus in a Good Ol’ Fashioned Donnybrook match at the Clash event in Paris has helped reestablish him in the company. During his AEW tenure, Rusev held the TNT Championship, adding notable accomplishments to his resume.
Meanwhile, Ilja Dragunov was promoted to WWE’s main roster during the 2023 WWE Draft after earning the NXT Championship during his time in WWE’s developmental system. Though Dragunov has yet to secure any championship gold on the main roster, his in-ring ability continues to generate interest from fans and WWE officials alike.
Criticism from Former WWE Writer on Dragunov’s Ring Style
Despite positive buzz surrounding Dragunov’s return, his wrestling style has faced criticism from some corners of the wrestling world. Vince Russo, a former WWE writer known for his controversial opinions, expressed disapproval following Dragunov’s performance in a Fatal 4-Way match on RAW last year.
During a discussion on Sportskeeda Wrestling’s Legion of RAW podcast, Russo highlighted what he considered unrealistic moves by Dragunov during the bout against competitors Jey Uso, Pete Dunne, and Braun Strowman.
“When I talk about the last two minutes when Pete Dunne and Dragunov were in there, Dragunov was doing these moves that were so crisp. Ridiculously unnecessary. Every time he hit him, he was doing the spin punch gimmick. Then he bounces off the ropes, came through. You’re really gonna do that in a real fight bro? Seriously?” —Vince Russo, Former WWE Writer
Uncertain Future for Dragunov as Fans Await Return
Rusev’s strong performances on RAW have contrasted with the ambiguity around Dragunov’s next steps. Rumors suggest that another potential rivalry with AJ Styles could be on the horizon once Dragunov is medically cleared to compete again. How WWE integrates these storylines will be crucial in defining the trajectory of Dragunov’s career going forward.
As the company carefully plans Ilja Dragunov WWE return plans, fans remain eager to see how the former NXT Champion will be positioned in WWE’s evolving landscape, especially given the competitive talent already active on the roster.
