The newest addition to the roster of Monday Night RAW, Ilja Dragunov, has quickly garnered a massive fanbase within the WWE Universe. Known for his impressive track record in NXT as a former NXT UK and NXT Champion, Dragunov has made a strong impact since his debut on the flagship show.
Having already secured victories against notable opponents like Shinsuke Nakamura and Ricochet, Dragunov faced a setback in a recent match against “Main Event” Jey Uso. However, fans are eagerly anticipating his upcoming showdown with Gunther, especially after Dragunov ended Gunther’s historic 870-day reign as NXT UK Champion at NXT TakeOver 36 in August 2021.
WWE strategically hinted at a future clash between Dragunov and Gunther during a recent episode of Monday Night RAW. The tension escalated as the Ring General confronted Dragunov in a memorable moment that closed the show, setting the stage for an intense rivalry.
Gunther (Via WWE/Twitter)
Despite some fans expressing disappointment over Dragunov’s initial loss on the main roster, the former NXT Champion remains resilient, expressing his pride in the journey that led him to this point. Meanwhile, Jey Uso is set to face the longest-reigning Intercontinental Champion in the King of the Ring semi-finals, with the winner advancing to compete against a SmackDown superstar in the finals in Saudi Arabia.
Renowned WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray commended WWE’s decision to feature Dragunov vs. Jey Uso as the main event on RAW, emphasizing the significance of Dragunov’s presence in such a high-profile match. Despite the outcome, Ray believes that Dragunov’s performance resonated with the audience, showcasing his potential to make a lasting impact on the RAW roster.
As the King of the Ring tournament unfolds on Monday Night RAW, Dragunov’s participation continues to generate excitement among fans and wrestling enthusiasts. With his impressive skills and determination, Dragunov is poised to make a significant mark in the WWE terrain, charming audiences with his electrifying performances.
