Ilja Dragunov Nears WWE Return After ACL Injury

Ilja Dragunov, a former NXT Champion, is reportedly on the path to an earlier-than-expected return to WWE following a torn ACL injury sustained in September 2024. He has been seen training at the WWE Performance Center, participating in traditional training rather than rehabilitation, which indicates he is progressing well. Initially, Dragunov was projected to be out for six to nine months, but his recent activities suggest a potential comeback sooner than anticipated. Meanwhile, WWE is also set to welcome back several prominent female wrestlers, including Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair, ahead of WrestleMania 41, though details regarding their specific return dates remain uncertain. Corey Graves' status within the company is also under consideration following his recent social media comments. No specific creative plans for Dragunov's return have been announced yet.