Ilja Dragunov Has No Regrets About WWE Run, Talks Fan Reaction To Him

Ilja Dragunov says that he has no regrets about his time in WWE and weighed in on fan response to his work. Dragunov’s time in WWE came to an end in August, leaving behind a run that included title reigns in NXT UK, WWE NXT, and on the main roster where he held the United States Championship.

Dragunov was asked in his appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show if he had any regrets about his time there and dismissed the notion. He also talked about why he likes that he can be a polarizing figure among wrestling fans, and you can see the highlights below:

On If He Has Any Regrets About His WWE Run:

“No. I mean, why should I? I just celebrated a beautiful, next chapter in my career. I definitely made a name for myself. I was highly successful in NXT UK; I was highly successful in NXT. I was — I still consider myself pretty successful on the main roster.”

On Fan Response To His Work:

“I have a beautiful fan base but I was never the character — like, for me it’s very clear to know that there are only two categories of people watching my work. Either people who are extremely behind me, really get me, really get emotionally invested into me. Or its the polar opposite, the people that think I’m the cringiest person in the world and whatnot. I don’t even know all the critique that is towards my person, but I love it that way. Because people care, and that’s what you want to do as a performer. You want to make people care, and you’re not a good performer if you’re not polarizing the masses.”

If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit The Ariel Helwani Show with a h/t to 411mania.com for the transcription.