Gunther and Ilja Dragunov Renew Their Rivalry: A WWE RAW Highlight

Gunther vs. Ilja Dragunov: A Thrilling Showdown

Wrestling fans in the Netherlands were treated to a thrilling encounter on Sunday as WWE reignited one of NXT UK’s most intense rivalries. At the “Road to Bash in Berlin” live event at Rotterdam Ahoy, Gunther defended the World Heavyweight Championship against Ilja Dragunov.

The crowd erupted when Dragunov announced the match during a pre-taped video, vowing to leave as the new champion. Their last clash occurred three years ago at NXT TakeOver 36, held at the WWE Performance Center. That night, Dragunov defeated Gunther, then known as Walter, to win the NXT United Kingdom Championship.

A Clash to Remember

• Many called it the best match of 2021, earning a five-and-a-quarter-star rating from wrestling writer Dave Meltzer.
• Dragunov's victory ended Gunther's historic 870-day reign, the longest in the title's history.

Unfortunately for Dragunov, he couldn’t replicate that success in the Netherlands. After another hard-hitting affair, Gunther emerged victorious, putting his challenger out with a sleeper hold.

What’s Next for Gunther and Dragunov?

The decision to book the first main roster meeting between Gunther and Dragunov at a live event may surprise and even frustrate some fans. Hardcore wrestling buffs have been anticipating this matchup since Dragunov’s arrival on Raw during the 2024 WWE Draft. After Gunther beat Kofi Kingston, it was up to Ilja to make it happen. Instead, he came up short against Jey Uso in a strong effort.

Gunther would later defeat Randy Orton to win the King of the Ring tournament, although the match wasn’t without controversy, as the referee missed Orton’s shoulder being off the mat during the pinfall. WWE’s Chief Content Officer hinted at a rematch likely on the horizon.

As Gunther retained his title this Saturday in Berlin, Dragunov's next challenge for Raw’s top prize looms large, leaving fans eager for what comes next in this captivating rivalry.