In what can only be described as “aggressively Russian resilience,” Ilja Dragunov—our favorite walking hurricane—was seen at the WWE Performance Center wearing “workout gear.” Does this mean he’s ready to slam someone through a table? Not quite yet, but hope is alive, and so is his unmistakable aura of impending violence.

According to Fightful Select, Dragunov’s status post-ACL tear (courtesy of a September WWE live event) is progressing, but whether he’s just stretching in yoga class or practicing dropkicks remains a mystery. Last week, reports indicated he wasn’t rocking wrestling gear yet, but this week’s sighting of workout attire could signify… well, something. Perhaps he’s practicing his infamous chest chops on mannequins? Either way, his recovery seems to be moving forward like a slow-motion action movie—intense and dramatic.

Let’s not forget: Dragunov’s injury came during a match with his longtime nemesis, GUNTHER. Their feud spans over a decade, from wXw to NXT to the main roster. The rivalry is basically Rocky IV on steroids, except Dragunov is the steroid. It’s only fitting that his eventual return might include seeking revenge against GUNTHER, the man who proved that you should never trust an opponent who enters the ring looking like he eats injuries for breakfast.

Dragunov’s short-lived run on the main roster before the injury included matches against the likes of Sami Zayn and Jey Uso. Clearly, WWE and Triple H had big plans for this guy, and if the buzz is true, Dragunov’s return could be one of 2025’s biggest moments. However, if his ACL recovery sticks to the six-to-nine-month timeline, we might not see him till WrestleMania 41, when GUNTHER might still be holding a belt—or possibly an entire country.

For now, Ilja Dragunov remains the Russian storm, waiting to make landfall. Keep an eye out for that “Workout Gear to Wrestling Gear” transformation—when it happens, you’ll know.

By Joseph Gallery

I like ice cream, taking a back seat, wondering who I am, and pretending kayfabe is real. May or may not be the Real Dark Brandon. For the LOLZ. MALARKEY!

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