This scandal tainted the final chapter of Ilja Dragunov’s WWE career.
During the Royal Rumble 2026 in Saudi Arabia, fans were outraged when the Russian wrestler’s strikes had no effect on Brock Lesnar. The Minneapolis native did not sell the devastating blows from the former United States Champion, and he eliminated Dragunov just a few seconds later. A segment that damaged the credibility of the Mad Dragon, before he would permanently disappear from the spotlight a few months later.
Questioned by the videographer Adrian Hernandez on theRoad to WrestleMania, the former WXW wrestler reassured the fan at the time.
He states :
“Oh my God, it was absolutely magnificent. I mean, guys, please. I was toe‑to‑toe with Brock Lesnar. How many people in this life can do that? Brock Lesnar has been so influential and so important to the entire history of this company. And having the chance to experience a moment that perfectly expresses who I am is simply magnificent.”
“I am the guy who comes closest to a beast, and I’m not holding back. Of course, you will lose matches in your career. But the person that Ilja Dragunov is will take the lead; I will face my fear. I won’t hold back. And if I have to endure the punishment, I’ll willingly do it. And some people won’t understand that. I have delivered the best match I could against the absolute beast.”
As of August 20, 2026, PWInsider reports that Ilja Dragunov has left WWE. Where do you think he will reinvent himself next?
