Ilja Dragunov is wasting no time building his reputation as a fighting champion.
WWEs resident Mad Dragon will once again put his United States Championship on the line in an open challenge on the October 31 edition of Friday Night SmackDownand all eyes are on who will step up next. Dragunov announced the open challenge on social media earlier today, stating:
The hard-hitting champion won the U.S. Title on October 17 after defeating Sami Zayn in an intense battle, and successfully retained it last week against Aleister Black in another open challenge. His willingness to take on all comers is quickly turning his reign into must-see TVand tonights episode promises a nother big test.
This weeks SmackDown airs live from the Delta Center in Salt Lake City and serves as the final stop before Saturday Nights Main Event. In addition to Dragunovs title defense, the show features several key segments and matches:
- Ilja Dragunov (c) vs. TBA U.S. Title Open Challenge
- Carmelo Hayes vs. Kit Wilson
- Alexa Bliss vs. Nia Jax
- Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre appear ahead of their Undisputed Title clash
- Jade Cargill speaks following her shocking heel turn on Tiffany Stratton
Fans wont want to miss whats sure to be a chaotic and memorable night heading into the weekend.
WWE SmackDown airs tonight at 8 PM ET on the USA Network in the U.S., and will be available internationally on streaming platforms such as Netflix. Ringside News will have live play-by-play coverage, results, and breaking updates as they happenso be sure to follow along.
Who do you think will answer Ilja Dragunovs open challenge tonight? Let us know in the comments and keep the conversation going.
