Latest Backstage Update on Ilja Dragunov & AEW

Ilja Dragunov is reportedly headed to All Elite Wrestling. Ever since Ilja shockingly exited WWE last month, speculation has been rife about him landing in AEW.

In this week’s issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter (WON), Dave Meltzer reported that The Mad Dragon has signed a deal with All Elite Wrestling and is expected to make his debut for the company very soon.

Notably, Fightful Select reported earlier this week that Ilja was certain to join AEW, but that final details regarding the deal were yet to be “nailed down.”

Ilja departed WWE last month after reportedly opting against signing a new deal. According to media reports, the 32-year-old had held discussions with the promotion over a contract extension before communication broke down between the concerned parties.

Dragunov joined WWE in 2019 and joined the NXT UK brand, where he captured the NXT UK Championship. He also won the NXT Championship during his stint on the developmental brand before moving to the main roster in 2024. The Mad Dragon captured his maiden championship on the main roster last October when he won the United States Title from Sami Zayn. However, he was barely used this year, with his last appearance coming on the SmackDown before WrestleMania 42, where he competed in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royale.