Person Behind Ilja Dragunov’s Planned U.S. Title Win Revealed

Ilja Dragunov’s surprise return on SmackDown didn’t just shake up the show — it revealed WWE’s next big title plan.

According to Bodyslam, the current United States Champion Sami Zayn was the one who pitched the idea for Dragunov to dethrone him. Zayn has been vocal about making the U.S. Championship mean something again, and putting Dragunov in the spotlight appears to be his chosen path. Sources indiated that Zayn personally made the call, hoping Dragunov could benefit from the boost and carry the momentum forward.

This behind-the-scenes move gives fans a clearer look at how WWE’s title scene evolves. Zayn didn’t just accept Dragunov as a challenger — he wanted him to be the one to take the belt. That decision could be the start of a major push for Dragunov as SmackDown looks to shake up its roster.

If plans stick, Dragunov will soon find himself holding gold in WWE for the first time on the main roster, thanks in large part to Zayn’s backing.

Do you think Sami Zayn is right to hand the spotlight to Ilja Dragunov, or should he hold onto the United States Championship longer? Drop your thoughts in the comments and tell us what you’d do if you were booking this storyline.