Ilja Dragunov Comments On Brock Lesnar No-Selling Chops

Ilja Dragunov made his debut in All Elite Wrestling at the WrestleDream pay-per-view event. Renee Paquette introduced him to the live audience, which reacted positively to the former WWE performer.

Dragunov did not compete at WrestleDream. He is scheduled to have his first match in the promotion on the upcoming episode of Dynamite.

In a recent interview, Dragunov addressed his contract negotiations with WWE. He chose not to criticize the company and instead provided measured comments about the discussions and his decision not to renew his deal.

WWE reduces its roster following WrestleMania each year. This year the company requested that multiple talents accept a 50 percent pay reduction to remain under contract.

Several performers who declined the pay cut were released from WWE. Among them, the group formerly known as New Day in WWE rejected the offer and were subsequently let go.

That group debuted in AEW at the All In event held in Wembley Stadium. They captured the AEW World Trios Championships on the same day in partnership with Swerve Strickland.