Ilya Dragunov entered All Elite Wrestling “hungry” for competition. Fortunately for him, there’s a round-robin tournament that can satisfy that appetite.
On This week’s edition of AEW Advance, Dragunov addressed his potential entry into the 2026 Continental Classic, which is scheduled to begin on the November 18 episode of AEW Dynamite in Denver, Colorado.
“I’m thinking a lot about the Continental Classic,” Dragunov said, “because looking back to 2023, Eddie Kingston, 2024, (Kazuchika) Okada, 25, (John) Moxley. This tournament represents mental toughness because as far back as I can remember, all these people have really gone through setbacks, injuries, me. Big emotional moment… This tournament represents strength, resilience, and I feel like the landscape of AEW is going to change because I’m here.
According to Dragunov, it would be a shame, both for AEW and the fans, if he didn’t make it to the 2026 Continental Classic, especially considering that he embodies everything that comes with it. Ultimately, he knows the final decision rests in the hands of AEW officials, though.
John Moxley, the current AEW Continental Championwon a repeat of last year, defeating Kazuchika Okada in the final. Okada won the 2024 tournament by defeating Will Osprey in the finals.
The Continental Classic typically spans several weeks, with AEW Worlds End serving as the platform for its final showdown. This year’s Worlds End event will take AEW to the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota on December 19th.
If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit AEW with ah/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.
