Will Ospreay Believes Ilja Dragunov Match Could Be Huge Money Draw
Will Ospreay said a future singles match with Ilja Dragunov could be a major money draw and main-event any show. Ospreay noted he has known Dragunov from their time in wXw but has never faced him, and praised Dragunov's intensity. Ospreay, the AEW World Champion, is set to face Kazuchika Okada at Grand Slam France on October 6.
Ospreay captured AEW's top title at All In and has since retained it against Jon Moxley at All Out. He views challengers as needing to prove themselves before sharing his ring. Dragunov, a former WWE performer, spent time in wXw on cards with Ospreay, yet the two never met one-on-one. Ospreay has followed him for years and considers that pairing capable of headlining anywhere.
Ospreay also highlighted Dragunov's rare intensity, saying he pushes opponents to match his pace and aggression. According to Ospreay, few in AEW can replicate that level. Before any such match can be explored, Ospreay is set to face Kazuchika Okada at Grand Slam France on October 6, 2026.
If the match materializes, it could energize wrestling audiences, especially AEW followers and those familiar with Dragunov's wXw work. A high-profile singles bout may boost ticket demand, streaming interest, and merchandise around the event, while giving wrestlers a visible example of long-term storytelling paying off. It may also intensify online debate about dream matches and roster booking. Any broader social effect would likely remain within entertainment fandom rather than extending far beyond it.