Ilja Dragunov Leaves WWE: Stu Grayson Wants to Face Him

Ilja Dragunov has officially moved on from WWE, and speculation is already growing about where the former United States Champion could compete next. The 32-year-old has established himself as one of professional wrestling’s most intense in-ring performers, making him an attractive free-agent option for major promotions.

Dragunov spent seven years with WWE and delivered several memorable matches during his run with the company. Although his championship résumé was relatively limited, his reputation as a hard-hitting and technically gifted competitor made him one of the most respected wrestlers on the roster.

Stu Grayson wants to wrestle Ilja Dragunov

While fans have speculated about Dragunov potentially joining AEW or competing in New Japan Pro-Wrestling, former AEW star Stu Grayson has already identified the “Mad Dragon” as someone he would like to face.

Grayson recently took to X to reveal that Dragunov is at the top of his list of wrestlers he wants to compete against, either for the first time or again.

“There are a lot of people I want to wrestle for the first time or wrestle again. Ilja Dragunov is at the top of that list,” Grayson wrote.

The statement has added another layer to the speculation surrounding Dragunov’s future. A potential match between the two would give fans an intriguing clash between Grayson’s experience and Dragunov’s relentless in-ring style.

Could Ilja Dragunov join AEW?

AEW has emerged as one of the promotions fans are discussing as a possible destination for Dragunov. The former WWE star’s style could fit naturally into AEW’s competitive wrestling environment, where several high-profile performers are known for their demanding matches.

AEW stars Kyle Fletcher and Tommaso Ciampa have already teased the possibility of Dragunov appearing in the promotion, further fueling speculation about his next move.

If Dragunov eventually joins AEW, he would have no shortage of potential opponents. Matches against Kenny Omega, Will Ospreay, Swerve Strickland, Kazuchika Okada, Darby Allin, MJF, Jay White and Jon Moxley could provide major opportunities for the former NXT Champion.

Given his previous championship success and reputation, Dragunov could also become a serious contender for the AEW World Championship.

Trick Williams praises former NXT rival

Dragunov’s reputation was further highlighted by Trick Williams, who shared his admiration for their memorable NXT rivalry.

Speaking to Sports Illustrated, Williams recalled how his matches with Dragunov pushed him beyond what he believed he was capable of achieving.

“Every single match I’ve had with Ilja Dragunov is just phenomenal. He pulled out a side of Trick Williams that I didn’t even know existed,” Williams said.

Williams also credited Dragunov with helping him develop as a performer, explaining that competing against him required a different level of intensity and determination.

The rivalry between the two became one of the standout programs of their time in NXT, with their physical matches earning significant praise from wrestling fans.

What’s next for Ilja Dragunov?

Dragunov’s departure from WWE has created considerable uncertainty around his next destination. While AEW is one possibility, other major wrestling promotions could also be interested in acquiring a performer with his experience and reputation.

A potential appearance at a major AEW event would immediately generate attention, particularly if Dragunov were introduced against an established star.

For now, nothing has been confirmed regarding his next wrestling destination. However, with Stu Grayson publicly naming him as a dream opponent and AEW talent already teasing his arrival, speculation about Dragunov’s future is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.