The departure of Ilja Dragunov from WWE has generated surprise both inside and outside the company. During the past week, information emerged indicating that the wrestler had let his contract expire, ending a seven-year relationship with WWE. AJ Styles, now retired from competition and currently involved in talent development within the company, acknowledged that the situation has affected him especially due to the admiration he feels for Dragunov's work.
In the latest edition of The AJ Styles Show, the Hall of Famer clarified that he does not know the reasons that may have led Dragunov to make this decision. Styles explained that, despite still working for WWE, his role is focused on training, supporting talents, and building a foundation for future generations, so he does not have direct information on all contractual matters.
"I don't know anything about it. I just know that I am very sad about this situation. I really enjoy his work. I don't know what's going on, and I can't say much because one would think I should know. I work for the company, but my place is in coaching, with talent, and in small things to try to improve WWE and build that foundation with the younger wrestlers. So I don't know what's going on. All I know is: 'Wow'," he stated.
Styles insisted that any definitive explanation will have to come from Dragunov himself when he feels he can speak publicly. The former champion emphasized that, until then, the circulating versions are mere speculations and defended against drawing conclusions without knowing the full context.
We will have to wait and see what he says about the situation when he can speak. Then we will all know the truth, because we can speculate about anything, but the reality is that we don't know. I will be the first to say that he was an amazing guy.
Dragunov built a remarkable career during his time in WWE. After establishing himself as one of the main figures in NXT UK, he moved to the main roster following the brand merger in 2022 and debuted on Raw in 2024. He later transitioned to SmackDown, where he won the United States Championship by defeating Sami Zayn in October 2025. His reign lasted a couple of months until Carmelo Hayes took the title from him in December. Currently, there is no official explanation from Dragunov regarding his situation or what his next professional destination might be.
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