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League: WWESport: WrestlingCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

Ilja Dragunov expected to join AEW following WWE exit

2 sources • 2 min read • Latest: Sep 15, 2026, 1:16 AM

Last updated Sep 15, 2026

Ilja Dragunov expected to join AEW following WWE exit
Summary

Ilja Dragunov is anticipated to transition to All Elite Wrestling (AEW) after parting ways with WWE nearly a month ago. Reports suggest that while he has not yet signed a contract, Dragunov is likely to join AEW soon if he can resolve ongoing visa issues stemming from his departure from WWE. Although it's unclear when he will debut, he may face hurdles that prevent an immediate appearance, including the potential need to negotiate the use of his ring name after WWE filed to trademark it. Discussions arise about Dragunov's integration into AEW's talent roster, particularly his fit in Will Ospreay's United Empire stable.

Source Links
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By the Numbers
  • •Dragunov left WWE nearly a month ago.
  • •He may encounter visa challenges before joining AEW.
  • •His debut date in AEW remains uncertain.
  • •AEW filed for trademark on Dragunov's name in 2020.
  • •Speculation includes joining Will Ospreay's stable.
Latest Updates
  • 11:27 AMYahoo Sports — WWE news: Former NXT UK Champion AEW-bound after shocking exit
  • 1:16 AMYahoo Sports — Recently Released WWE Star Signing Contract With AEW
  • 5:16 PMWrestling Inc — Major Update On Ilja Dragunov's Next Move Following WWE Exit
What they're saying
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In a matter of weeks after Ilja Dragunov left WWE , the former NXT and NXT UK Champion has found a new home in Tony Khan’s AEW . Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp (via Sports Illustrated) reports that Dragunov is expected to sign a free agent deal with AEW. He would not be the only WWE-released star to jump ship, joining the New Level (formerly the New […] The post WWE news: Former NXT UK Champion AEW-bound after shocking exit appeared first on ClutchPoints.

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Former WWE superstar Ilja Dragunov appears AEW bound after a report confirmed the two sides are talking. Top wrestling insider Sean Ross Sapp reveals that Dragunov is fully expected to sign a contract and join the roster quite soon. Dragunov was released from WWE due to the company viewing him as someone who will never […] The post Recently Released WWE Star Signing Contract With AEW appeared first on HEAVY.

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A major update on Ilja Dragunov's next move following his WWE exit reveals that the former US Champion is expected to wind up in AEW sooner than later

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