Former champion reacts to major loss on WWE RAW

A former champion suffered a major loss on this week's edition of WWE RAW. The name in question, Ilja Dragunov, recently shared his reaction on social media following his loss against two veterans.

The 30-year-old locked horns with former WWE Champions Drew McIntyre and Sheamus in a Triple-Threat Money in the Bank qualifying match on the July 1 edition of the Monday Night RAW. The Scottish Warrior pinned The Celtic Warrior to secure the win and advance to the premium live event. After winning, Mcintyre declared that if he wins the MITB ladder match, he would cash in his contract the same night to become the new World Heavyweight Champion.

On the other hand, after failing to punch his ticket to Toronto, Ilja Dragunov took to Instagram to share a cryptic message. The former NXT Champion posted multiple pictures, including one from the Triple-Threat match. He wrote down a quote from German scholar and philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche in the caption:

"'Always doth he destroy who hath to be a creator.' Friedrich Nietzsche," he wrote.

You can check out Ilja Dragunov's Instagram update below:

Former WWE writer makes bold prediction about Ilja Dragunov's future on the main roster

Ilja Dragunov was one of the most dominant performers during his time on WWE's developmental brand. Before his arrival on the main roster earlier this year, he had successful title reigns as the NXT and NXT UK Champion.

Several fans expect The Mad Dragon to replicate his past success on the main roster. However, former WWE head writer Vince Russo thinks otherwise. While speaking on Sportskeeda Wrestling's Legion of RAW, the 63-year-old predicted that Dragunov would not get over with the fans and he would be in the same spot a year from now:

"This guy is never getting over. Guys, mark this down and let’s revisit this next April 29, 2025. I am telling you right now, a year from now, this guy will be in the same exact spot he’s in right now," the veteran said. [From 52:43 onwards]

You can watch Vince Russo talking about Ilja Dragunov in the video below:

Ilja Dragunov previously participated in the King of the Ring Tournament. He defeated Ricochet in the first round but lost to former Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champion Jey Uso in the next round. It remains to be seen what lies ahead for the Russian star following his loss on RAW.