Update on WWE and Ilja Dragunov negotiations

F4W/WON • August 20, 2026 • entertainment

Key Points:

Ilja Dragunov is leaving WWE after his contract expired, with reports indicating he chose not to renew despite WWE's interest in retaining him.
WWE and Dragunov were reportedly engaged in strong negotiations for his return to television as recently as June.
Dragunov's last WWE appearance was in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal on the April 17, 2026, episode of SmackDown.
The 32-year-old wrestler's departure marks the end of his current tenure with WWE following the contract expiration.