WWE Rumors: Speculation On New Deals Being Offered, Ilja Dragunov To NXT UK?

Some WWE rumors on contracts being offered and more!

All Elite Wrestling has certainly already shaken up the wrestling world already, specifically with regards to how other companies approach signing talent as everyone from Ring Of Honor, to MLW and WWE are in what could be described as a “free agent frenzy”.

There have also seemingly been more rumors regarding WWE, current Superstars and possible new ones than in recent memory with there being lots of speculation lately regarding The Revival (read about that here), Dolph Ziggler, Goldust, Mike and Maria Kanellis (find those here). This afternoon, there is more talk surrounding contracts and possible incoming talent.

According to The Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE has been telling “certain talents” that they will beat any offer made to them by another company and reportedly will even double it should said talent provide proof of the offer and will sign immediately. While it wasn’t indicated what “certain talents” could be getting this treatment, it’s being said that Bandido’s decision to sign with Ring Of Honor instead of WWE is a big reason for the change.

Additionally, there’s speculation today that NXT UK will soon be getting another new face as The Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that Ilja Dragunov has begin pulling out of upcoming dates, including one recently for Defiant Wrestling. Some outlets are reporting that he has already signed a deal, but nothing has been confirmed at this time. Dragunov took part in WWE’s recent Germany tryouts and it’s expected he will be coming in to be one of NXT UK’s top Superstars. The 5’9″, 187-pounder has made a name for himself in Germany’s wXw and began catching the eye of American fans after his appearances for Pro Wrestling Guerrilla.

EA’s Take: I’m pretty sure Dragunov is on his way to NXT UK. As for WWE saying they will beat any offers, I think the key part there is to “certain talents”. Which means they likely are only doing it for some of the bigger fish. Kenny Omega would be what I consider to be a “bigger fish” and I’d probably throw Shane Strickland in there as well. We’re talking guys outside of the company that you’ve likely actually heard of. Something tells me Jungle Boy or Jacob Fatu probably wouldn’t have gotten an offer from WWE that was doubled.