Tony Khan isn’t wasting any time making things official. Shortly after Ilja Dragunov made his surprise debut at AEW WrestleDream on October 17, 2026, the AEW President took to social media to welcome the former WWE star to the company.
Khan posted the official “All Elite” graphic featuring Dragunov, confirming that the former WWE star is now part of AEW’s roster.
“He has arrived in AEW tonight at #AEWWrestleDream, and now it’s official: @UNBESIEGBAR_ZAR is All Elite!”
The announcement came after Dragunov was introduced by Renee Paquette during WrestleDream. He made his entrance, stepped into the ring, took a lap and left without cutting a promo or getting involved in a match. The announcers confirmed that Dragunov was “All Elite” during the appearance, but Khan’s social media post made the signing official.
Dragunov’s arrival had been expected for weeks. AEW recently aired a mysterious vignette teasing his debut, and PWInsider revealed earlier in the day that he was expected to appear at WrestleDream.
Dragunov became a free agent after his WWE contract expired in August. His AEW debut had been held up while the company worked through visa issues.
Now the waiting game is over. Dragunov is officially signed, Tony Khan has welcomed him aboard, and AEW has another former WWE star on its roster. The company hasn’t announced his first match or storyline yet, but that could change quickly.
What do you think about Tony Khan officially signing Ilja Dragunov to AEW? Who should Dragunov face first? Let us know in the comments!
