Huge update on Ilja Dragunov WWE return in 2025

Ilja Dragunov is a man known for his brutal style inside the ring and the endurance he shows every time he steps into it. Ever since coming into WWE in 2019, Dragunov has been one of the consistent performers in the company. He moved to NXT after an illustrious run in NXT UK, where he famously defeated Gunther to end his 870-day reign as NXT UK Champion, and subsequently to WWE’s main roster in 2024. But his journey to the main roster hit a snag for the most unforeseen reason an injury.

On a live event in late September 2024 in Columbus, Georgia, Ilja faced off against the World Heavyweight Champion Gunther. The match was a really physical one and at the end, Ilja picked up an ACL tear. Very tough son of a gun as he somehow made it out of the ring under his own power. This was made official with WWE as the latest that could have Dragunov back in ring action would be in a window between March to June 2025, six to nine months off work.

Ilja Dragunov Recovery and Anticipated Return

Rehabilitation updates from Ilja have been quite optimistic. Many reported he was positive and serious with his rehabilitation. His fellow WWE star JD McDonagh, who shares a long history in the ring with him, termed Dragunov his “wrestling soulmate” while expressing his longing to see Ilja back inside the ring. According to McDonagh, he is somebody whose strong mindset can help him come back strongly.

Considering the injury timeline for ACL injuries, it would not be a stretch that Dragunov would be back in time for major WWE events by mid-2025. A possible return, on his part, would fall perfectly in the period when the road to big pay-per-view events starts, which again opens up a window for high-profile matches upon his return.

The absence of him has been felt within the WWE community, as his matches are celebrated for their intensity and storytelling. Fans and colleagues alike await his return in the hope that he will continue to deliver compelling performances and perhaps re-engage…