Ilja Dragunov expected to join AEW following WWE departure

Professional wrestler Ilja Dragunov is reportedly expected to join All Elite Wrestling (AEW) following his departure from WWE. While a formal contract has not yet been officially announced, reports indicate that the move has been planned for some time and is currently in the final stages of completion.

Several factors have influenced the timeline of his transition. Reports suggest that Dragunov, along with other non-U.S. wrestlers recently leaving WWE, faced delays due to visa expirations and other immigration-related hurdles. Dragunov, a 32-year-old former WWE United States Champion, became a free agent in August after his contract expired and he declined a renewal offer.

AEW wrestler Kyle Fletcher recently addressed criticism regarding his social media enthusiasm for the potential signing, stating he is excited to potentially wrestle a long-time friend. There is ongoing speculation regarding whether Dragunov will continue to use his full ring name, as while 'Ilja' is his given name, the use of 'Dragunov' may be subject to contractual considerations.