Ilja Dragunov made a highly anticipated return to WWE on October 17, 2023, during an episode of SmackDown. He answered Sami Zayn’s open challenge for the WWE United States Championship. This marked Dragunov’s first match since suffering a knee injury in September 2024, during a house show against GUNTHER.
Ilja Dragunov’s Thrilling Comeback
Fans were ecstatic when Ilja Dragunov, 32, made his comeback. He entered the arena donning a knee brace but quickly demonstrated his fighting spirit. Dragunov faced off against Sami Zayn after Carmelo Hayes interrupted a previous attempt by The Miz to accept the challenge.
Match Highlights
The match unfolded with both wrestlers showcasing their skills. They exchanged nearly falls, building anticipation among the audience. Just when it seemed the tide could turn in favor of Zayn, Solo Sikoa appeared at the entrance ramp, creating a distraction.
- Ilja Dragunov executed several signature moves on Sami Zayn.
- Dragunov won the championship, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Post-Match Fallout
Dragunov’s victory celebration was short-lived. The MFTs stormed the ring, launching an attack on both Dragunov and Zayn. Rey Fenix rushed to assist but was also targeted by the MFTs, who had previously assaulted him backstage.
Solo Sikoa seized the mic to proclaim MFT’s dominance over SmackDown. The situation intensified when the lights went out, leading to an unexpected confrontation with the Wyatt Sicks.
Future Implications
The events on SmackDown signal a merging of rivalries and power struggles. As Ilja Dragunov captures the WWE United States Championship, the landscape of WWE is becoming more complex. Fans are eager to see how these developments will unfold in the coming weeks.
