Ilja Dragunov, a former WWE United States, NXT, and NXT UK champion, is no longer with WWE. His profile was moved to the alumni section on Thursday. According to PW Insider, Dragunov’s contract with WWE has expired.

Dragunov, 32, is regarded as one of the top pro wrestlers in the industry. He joined WWE in February 2019, following a successful career with Progress Wrestling and other European promotions. From the start, he gained recognition as one of the most formidable competitors, quickly ascending to become the NXT UK champion.

After suffering a leg injury during his final days in NXT UK, Dragunov rejoined the NXT brand in September 2022. He participated in major championship matches against notable wrestlers such as Bron Breakker, JD McDonagh, Wes Lee, and Carmelo Hayes. Unfortunately, he did not win any titles during this period.

In September 2023, Dragunov made history by defeating Hayes to capture the NXT Championship, becoming the first WWE athlete to have claimed both the NXT and NXT UK titles. His tenure in NXT concluded in April 2024 when he lost the championship to Trick Williams. He then moved to the Raw brand following WrestleMania 40 but a torn ACL sidelined him for a year.

Upon his return, Dragunov entered the WWE United States Championship scene, defeating Sami Zayn to win the title in October 2025. He successfully defended it multiple times before eventually losing to Hayes. Dragunov participated in the Royal Rumble earlier this year and made his last WWE TV appearance in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal during the “Friday Night SmackDown” leading up to WrestleMania 42.