More On The Ilja Dragunov Injury Angle On NXT

Ilja Dragunov was stretchered out on the 12/19 episode of NXT, but no fear — it’s an angle.

The story was filmed last week, and played off of Ridge Holland being involved in Big E’s injury almost two years ago. The idea was one that Fightful was told was a bit controversial among some in WWE, but they went through with it. Corey Brennan of Fightful reported last week that the spot was just an angle, and we’ve learned more.

Brennan is told by NXT sources that everyone seemed happy with the performance and camera work, and producers seemed pleased with the reaction the angle got from the crowd. WWE producers were aware that most in attendance understood it was an angle because they quickly announced the next show was starting. Cameras followed Dragunov all the way to the ambulance, and it driving off.

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