The former WWE star is being linked to AEW’s October 6 event
Summary
– Ilja Dragunov is expected to join AEW if no unexpected issues change the plan
– Dave Meltzer suggested Dragunov could debut at AEW’s Paris event
– AEW will hold Grand Slam France on October 6 opposite WWE NXT
Ilja Dragunov could have a major stage waiting for him if his expected move to AEW becomes official.
During Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer discussed Dragunov’s future after Bryan Alvarez noted that an AEW move appears increasingly likely. Meltzer said Dragunov would be an obvious signing for AEW if he is available at a reasonable price.
Meltzer also mentioned that Dragunov’s girlfriend was recently seen at a Ring of Honor taping, adding another detail to the speculation surrounding his next destination.
Although Meltzer does not know when Dragunov would begin with AEW, he pointed to the company’s upcoming event in Paris as one possible location for his debut.
AEW will hold Grand Slam: France at Adidas Arena on Tuesday, October 6. The event will mark AEW’s first live show in France and will take place on the same night as WWE NXT.
Meltzer expects AEW to load up the Paris event because of the location and the reputation of European wrestling crowds. He also noted that Dragunov’s wrestling history in Germany and Austria could make Europe a fitting place for his first AEW appearance.
Nothing has been confirmed regarding Dragunov’s AEW status or a potential Paris debut. For now, the idea remains speculation, but the timing would give AEW a major opportunity to introduce one of wrestling’s most distinctive performers.
