Ilja Dragunov: Working NXT Europe Is A No Brainer

NXT UK went on hiatus following NXT Worlds Collide in September 2022 with the announcement that NXT Europe would be starting in 2023. 

Triple H said in July that the WWE and UFC merger, which didn’t become official until September 12, slowed down the launch of NXT Europe and there hasn’t been a further update. 

Ilja Dragunov was one of the faces during the totality of NXT UK, and technically never lost the NXT UK Championship, having to relinquish it due to injury and never getting a shot at the title as the brand closed. 

Speaking to Jeremy Lambert of Fightful, Dragunov was asked if he would be part of the NXT Europe brand if asked. 

“Absolutely. It is like a no brainer. When I have the opportunity to go back to Europe, 100%. I would be up for everything. It is my home. I love Europe. Of course, I enjoy my time in the States, as well, but nothing is like the true aura of Europe. You can’t get it out of there,” he said.

Dragunov famously ended Gunther’s 807 day reign as NXT UK Champion. 

Like many talents from NXT UK, Dragunov made his way to NXT, making his full-time debut on the brand on the September 20, 2022 episode of NXT. 

Dragunov is set to challenge Carmelo Hayes for the NXT Championship at NXT No Mercy on Saturday, September 29. Fans can check out the current lineup for the card by clicking here. 

Watch the full interview with Dragunov in the video above.