More details have emerged about why Ilja Dragunov and WWE were unable to reach terms on a new contract, with WWE reportedly viewing the former NXT Champion as an excellent in-ring performer but not someone who moved business numbers enough to justify the level of money involved. The two sides were reportedly far apart financially, and WWE ultimately decided months before his contract expired that Dragunov would no longer be used on television.
According to Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dragunov’s WWE contract expired on August 20, 2026, making him a free agent. Meltzer reported that Dragunov had been working under what was described as a very good contract, but negotiations over a new agreement did not produce a deal.
The latest report provides more context regarding WWE’s position during those negotiations. According to WON, there apparently wasn't an issue with how WWE viewed Dragunov's wrestling ability. Instead, the concern was whether his value outside the ring justified what he was seeking financially.
WWE reportedly felt that Dragunov was a “great worker” but not a “numbers mover.” Because of that, the belief was that he needed to demonstrate that he could move business at that level to justify the amount of money he was asking for and had been making.
Dragunov had already built a decorated WWE résumé. He became NXT UK Champion after ending GUNTHER's lengthy reign at NXT TakeOver 36 and later captured the NXT Championship. After reaching the main roster, he suffered a torn ACL that kept him out for roughly a year before returning in October 2025 and defeating Sami Zayn to capture the United States Championship.
There had also been indications before his departure that WWE did not see Dragunov at the same level as its top stars. Meltzer reported in June that WWE did not view Dragunov as a “top guy,” providing further context for how the company reportedly evaluated him heading into contract negotiations.
With his contract now expired, Dragunov is reportedly a free agent, ending his WWE run after joining the company in 2019.
Wrestling
