Add as a preferred source on Google Ilja Dragunov, one of the most respected names on WWE’s current roster, is going through a rough stretch inside the ring.
According to research conducted by Wrestling Noticias, Dragunov has won only two of his 11 matches in 2026. The “Mad Dragon” also has not won a match under any circumstances since January 31.
The situation stands out mainly because Dragunov returned to WWE in October 2025 with major momentum, defeating Sami Zayn to win the United States Championship.
His last major televised win came against The Miz on the January 30 episode of Friday Night SmackDown, when he hit the Torpedo Moscow followed by the H-Bomb. After that, things began to change drastically.
In February, Dragunov was pulled into the rivalry against MFT. First, his match against Carmelo Hayes was canceled due to interference from the group, before he was defeated in a 10-Man Tag Team Match. One week later, he lost to Tama Tonga after interference from members of the stable.
The most important loss came on March 20, again against Carmelo Hayes, in a match for the United States Championship. Although he pushed the then-champion to the limit, Dragunov ended up taking the pinfall after a sunset flip powerbomb.
To make matters worse, Dragunov was left off WrestleMania 42, as was Hayes, something that drew plenty of criticism from fans. It remains to be seen whether WWE plans to rebuild his momentum in the coming weeks, or if his rough stretch will continue after the biggest event of the year.