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The Mad Dragon cannot be replaced exactly. His combination of aggression, intensity, and technical wrestling made him unique. However, WWE can replace his role by elevating another SmackDown midcard superstar into a consistent singles attraction.
That said, in this article, we look at four realistic replacements for Ilja Dragunov.
#4. Matt Cardona could replace Ilja Dragunov
Matt Cardona could be an interesting choice to occupy the space Ilja Dragunov leaves behind.
Cardona returned to WWE and quickly became an active part of SmackDown’s singles scene. He has already competed against several notable names, including Trick Williams and Sami Zayn, proving that Triple H is comfortable using him in meaningful matches. In January, Matt faced Trick in a qualifying match connected to the Undisputed WWE Championship picture.
More recently, Matt Cardona was involved in a confrontation with Gunther. On August 14, Cardona stepped up to defend his wife, Interim Women’s Champion Chelsea Green, after Gunther insulted her. That confrontation immediately led to an impromptu match, with The Ring General defeating the veteran.
That loss does not have to hurt Matt Cardona. Instead, WWE could use the match as evidence that Cardona belongs in serious singles programs. He has the experience to work with established stars while also possessing enough credibility to help younger performers.
Thus, a sustained run around the United States Championship would give Cardona something meaningful to chase. Also, it would provide SmackDown with another reliable midcard attraction.
#3. Trick Williams
Trick Williams may be the most obvious young superstar to benefit from Ilja Dragunov’s departure. He has already been involved heavily in the United States Championship picture and has demonstrated that WWE sees him as more than just another midcard wrestler.
On the August 7 episode of SmackDown, Trick challenged Baron Corbin to a rematch for the United States Championship after dropping it to him at SummerSlam. Although Corbin won through questionable tactics, Williams stayed involved in the feud by executing a sneak attack on the champion after he defeated Carmelo Hayes last week.
That is exactly the kind of momentum WWE should preserve. Trick Williams has charisma, athleticism, and a connection with the audience that makes him an ideal candidate to become one of SmackDown’s defining midcard stars. He also has plenty of room to improve, meaning the company could gradually build him toward the main-event scene.
The biggest advantage is that Trick does not need to be presented as Dragunov 2.0. Ilja was intense and explosive. Williams is charismatic and confident. Considering this, giving the latter a more prominent role would allow SmackDown to replace Dragunov’s position on the card without copying his presentation.
A longer feud with Baron Corbin could be the perfect starting point.
#2. Carmelo Hayes
Carmelo Hayes has already been operating in the exact territory Ilja Dragunov leaves vacant. The former United States Champion is one of SmackDown’s most consistent midcard names. Also, his recent rivalry with Baron Corbin has kept him around the title picture.
WWE has repeatedly shown confidence in Hayes. On August 14, he challenged Corbin for the United States Championship in his hometown of Boston. The champion ultimately retained the title after using questionable tactics, while Trick Williams subsequently attacked the champion.
That result leaves Hayes with an obvious reason to remain involved. A rematch could eventually put him back in contention, while a separate rivalry with Trick could create another important midcard feud.
Also, Carmelo Hayes has the in-ring ability to carry the kind of matches Ilja Dragunov regularly produced. His athleticism is different from Dragunov’s hard-hitting style. However, that is precisely why he would make a good replacement.
WWE could use Hayes to keep the United States Championship scene exciting while gradually rebuilding him as a future world-title challenger. Thus, he should be one of the first names considered.
#1. Baron Corbin
Baron Corbin is arguably the strongest replacement for Ilja Dragunov because he is already occupying a position of importance in the SmackDown midcard.
Corbin holds the United States Championship and has defended it against both Trick Williams and Carmelo Hayes. WWE has therefore established him as one of the central figures in the blue brand’s midcard. His championship reign gives the company a natural foundation.
Rather than immediately searching for another wrestler to replicate Ilja Dragunov’s role, WWE could make Corbin the centerpiece of a new generation of midcard rivalries.
The former King of the Ring winner has the size and physicality to make his opponents look like they are facing a genuine obstacle. He also has enough experience to work with younger superstars such as Trick and Hayes.
Most importantly, Baron Corbin’s current championship reign already creates multiple potential programs.
Trick Williams wants revenge after Corbin’s controversial victory. Carmelo Hayes remains determined to win the title after falling short in Boston. That gives WWE two ready-made challengers without needing to manufacture a new storyline.
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