Ilja Dragunov’s Departure from WWE

Ilja Dragunov, former WWE superstar, has exited the company. WWE updated its website, placing Dragunov’s profile in the alumni section this week.

Dragunov faced off against Carmelo Hayes during a SmackDown event at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas, on December 5, 2025. Reports indicated that Dragunov’s WWE contract had expired.

The 32-year-old wrestler, known for his impressive skills, joined WWE in February 2019. Prior to this, Dragunov garnered experience with Progress Wrestling and other European promotions. He quickly established himself as one of the strongest competitors, ultimately becoming the NXT UK champion.

While performing in NXT UK, Dragunov sustained a leg injury. He made a comeback to NXT in September 2022 and engaged in championship matches against top contenders such as Bron Breakker, JD McDonagh, Wes Lee, and Carmelo Hayes. During this stint, he did not win any titles.

In January 2026, Dragunov was back in action at SmackDown, held at OVO Arena Wembley in London, England.

Dragunov secured the NXT Championship in September 2023 by defeating Carmelo Hayes. This victory made him the first wrestler to hold both NXT and NXT UK Championship titles. However, in April 2024, his NXT reign ended after a loss to Trick Williams. Following this event, he was promoted to the Raw brand. A torn ACL sidelined Dragunov for a year.

Upon his return, Dragunov vied for the WWE United States Championship, winning the title from Sami Zayn in October 2025. His title reign saw many successful defenses until he eventually lost to Hayes. Dragunov’s presence was felt at various events, including a SmackDown held at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C., on March 20, 2026.

This year, Dragunov took part in the Royal Rumble and made his final WWE TV appearance at the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal on “Friday Night SmackDown” before WrestleMania 42.