The Mad Dragon shocks fans with a surprise comeback and championship victory
Summary
– Ilja Dragunov made a surprise return on WWE SmackDown in San Jose
– Dragunov defeated Sami Zayn to capture the United States Championship
– Solo Sikoa’s interference led to chaos as the MFTs laid out both men after the match
Fans at the SAP Center in San Jose witnessed a major shake-up on WWE SmackDown when Ilja Dragunov made his stunning return and captured the United States Championship from Sami Zayn.
The night began with Zayn declaring that he would defend his title in an Open Challenge, telling General Manager Nick Aldis that he was willing to fight anyone, booked or not. The Miz interrupted to mock the idea, but Carmelo Hayes ran him off, clearing the way for a surprise challenger — Ilja Dragunov.
The returning Dragunov gave Zayn a brutal, fast-paced match, with the crowd roaring. Midway through, Solo Sikoa appeared at ringside and distracted Zayn, allowing Dragunov to seize control. After delivering a series of devastating strikes capped by the H Bomb, Dragunov pinned Zayn to win the title.
As the new champion celebrated with pyro on the stage, the MFTs stormed the ring, attacking Dragunov and Zayn. Solo Sikoa then grabbed a microphone, declaring that “the MFTs run SmackDown,” sending a clear message to the rest of the roster.
Ilja Dragunov’s return instantly redefines the blue brand’s landscape, and his first night back couldn’t have made a louder statement.
