Spoiler: Ilja Dragunov’s Opponent For WWE SmackDown Open Challenge

Looks like one of tonight’s biggest surprises on WWE SmackDown has already leaked.

According to PWInsider, JD McDonagh is set to answer Ilja Dragunov’s open challenge on the November 21, 2025 episode of SmackDown. While WWE hadn’t officially revealed Dragunov’s opponent, as they normally don’t before the show.

Speaking of Smackdown, the show will also feature two key matches in the Last Time Is Now tournament—Carmelo Hayes vs. Bronson Reed and Penta vs. Finn Bálor. Tag team action is also on the card with Fraxiom battling #DIY, plus Chelsea Green will hold a celebration after winning the WWE Women’s U.S. Title.

SmackDown goes live tonight from the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado at 8 PM ET on USA Network. Fans outside the U.S. can also catch the show via Netflix and other streaming platforms.

With McDonagh and Dragunov set to collide again, this episode might just steal the spotlight before Survivor Series.

WWE SmackDown November 21, 2025 Full Card

• Last Time Is Now Tournament: Carmelo Hayes vs. Bronson Reed
• Last Time Is Now Tournament: Penta vs. Finn Bálor
• Fraxiom vs. #DIY
• Chelsea Green’s Women’s U.S. Title Celebration

Be sure to tune in live and follow along with Ringside News for full play-by-play coverage over in our SmackDown results section.

Do you think JD McDonagh is the right choice for Dragunov’s open challenge? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear from you.