After nearly 11 months sidelined with a torn ACL, WWE Superstar Ilja Dragunov has been officially cleared to return to in-ring action, sparking major excitement among fans and insiders about his next steps in Monday Night RAW. According to recent reports from industry sources including the Wrestling Observer Newsletter and Bodyslam.net, WWE is carefully strategizing Dragunov’s comeback timing, aiming to reintroduce the former NXT Champion at a pivotal moment on the WWE calendar, possibly at a marquee event such as Clash in Paris or Survivor Series[1][3].

Ilja Dragunov’s Injury and Recovery Timeline

Dragunov sustained his serious ACL tear during a house show match against Gunther on September 28, 2024, in Columbus, Georgia, abruptly halting his rapid momentum on the main roster. At the time, he was positioned as a rising star on RAW, having established impressive wins including a notable King of the Ring tournament victory over Ricochet, with potential high-profile feuds against The Judgment Day in discussion[1][2]. WWE initially placed Dragunov’s expected recovery at six to nine months, a typical timeline for ACL injuries, but his rehabilitation extended longer due to WWE’s prudent approach and the injury’s severity.

Throughout his recovery, Dragunov was reportedly seen training without support gear at the WWE Performance Center, indicating steady progress towards full health. Multiple reports confirm he has been extremely diligent with rehab sessions, often working out several times a day as part of an aggressive return-to-ring regimen[1][2].

Strategic Hold on Dragunov’s Return

Despite Dragunov being medically cleared and physically ready, WWE is deliberately withholding his immediate return. Sources close to the company reveal that WWE plans to weave Dragunov’s comeback into their evolving RAW storylines, seeking the perfect moment to maximize impact rather than rushing him back prematurely[1]. As a former NXT Champion who gained a strong cult following for his intense, hard-hitting style and charismatic presence, WWE sees him as a valuable asset who can instantly elevate the roster when reintroduced under the right circumstances.

Industry insiders speculate that Dragunov could be inserted into ongoing tournament storylines, with rumors pointing to his participation as a mystery entrant in recent King of the Ring qualifiers on RAW. This aligns with the buzz around a “mystery fourth man” in one of the fatal four-way tournament matches—a slot many fans and reporters believe Dragunov is set to claim[2].

Potential Impact on RAW and WWE’s Creative Direction

Dragunov’s return is expected to shake up RAW’s midcard and possibly heavyweight divisions, injecting fresh energy and fierce competition. His technical prowess and fighting spirit resonate strongly with WWE viewers, and his comeback could help rejuvenate story arcs around WWE’s evolving faction dynamics, including conflicts involving The Judgment Day or existing RAW contenders.

Moreover, WWE may leverage Dragunov’s return as a surprise highlight during major upcoming events. Clash in Paris and Survivor Series are potential targets for a high-profile re-debut, given their significance in the WWE calendar, enabling a dramatic splash that could re-energize fan engagement[1][3].

Backstage Buzz and Insider Perspectives

According to a WWE insider speaking with Fightful, Dragunov’s determination and professionalism impressed coaches and medical staff throughout his recovery period. “Ilja never lost focus. Even when injured, he was in the Performance Center pushing himself harder than most. WWE wants to ensure he returns fully ready because they see a huge future for him on RAW,” the source revealed.

Similarly, Bodyslam.net highlighted Dragunov’s multiple daily rehab sessions, underscoring a level of commitment that suggests he will make a seamless transition back into the ring once creative greenlights the timing of his debut[1][2].

Naomi’s RAW Spoiler and Wider WWE Implications

Alongside Dragunov’s anticipated return, recent reports indicate a potential massive RAW spoiler involving WWE Superstar Naomi, although details remain tightly under wraps. While her storyline implications are still emerging, this could signal WWE’s intent to refresh RAW’s female division in tandem with Dragunov’s comeback, indicating a broader strategy to boost viewership with surprise elements and fresh talent reintegration.

Sources close to WWE speculate that such moves are part of WWE’s larger plan to revitalize RAW’s roster ahead of the key fall and winter events, setting the stage for compelling rivalries and championship pursuits heading into 2026.

When Can Fans Expect Dragunov’s Return?

While no official date has been announced, the consensus among observers suggests that Dragunov’s return is imminent, possibly occurring in late August or early September 2025. The timing would allow WWE to build anticipation through gradual storyline hints and teasing segments on RAW, culminating in a momentous comeback that could redefine RAW’s narrative trajectory for months to come[1][3].

As of mid-August 2025, Dragunov remains in WWE’s plans as a future cornerstone of the RAW roster, with his return widely anticipated by fans and insiders alike. WWE continues monitoring his progress and adjusting plans to align with their creative vision, ensuring Dragunov’s comeback is both triumphant and impactful.

This ongoing development marks a significant chapter in WWE programming, blending careful medical management with dynamic creative storytelling. Ilja Dragunov’s return could be one of the defining moments in WWE’s 2025-2026 season, bolstering RAW’s competitive landscape and thrilling wrestling audiences worldwide.