Ex-WWE Star Clarifies 90-Day Non-Compete Misconception After Ilja Dragunov’s Exit
Former WWE star Jinder Mahal has addressed a common misconception surrounding 90-day non-compete clauses. This was following Ilja Dragunov‘s recent departure from the company.
Dragunov’s WWE contract expired on August 20, 2026, with reports stating that the former United States Champion had decided to leave the promotion. WWE has since moved his profile to the alumni section of its official website.
With Dragunov now a free agent, speculation has already begun about where the Mad Dragon could wrestle next. Amid the discussion, Mahal explained how WWE’s 90-day provision actually works.
“There is no such thing as a 90-day non-compete clause, even when you get released,” Mahal said. “WWE is giving you 90 days’ notice that your contract is being terminated. You remain under contract and continue getting paid during that period. Once the 90 days are up, you’re free to work anywhere.”
Mahal also highlighted the key distinction between a WWE release and an expired contract.
“And obviously, if your contract simply expires, you’re free to work anywhere immediately,” he added.
Dragunov spent several years with WWE and became one of the company’s most acclaimed performers on the NXT brand. He won the NXT Championship and later captured the United States Championship on the main roster after returning from injury in 2025.
Ilja Dragunov’s WWE Exit
Dragunov’s departure came after contract negotiations between the wrestler and WWE reportedly failed to produce a new agreement.
Dave Meltzer reported in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that Dragunov’s previous deal was approaching its expiration and that the two sides were “far enough apart” during negotiations over a new contract. WWE subsequently stopped using Dragunov on television after April.
His final WWE television appearance came on SmackDown before WrestleMania 42, where he competed in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal.
Dragunov’s next destination remains unknown, but his reported immediate availability has already fueled speculation about a potential move to another major wrestling promotion. AEW and MLW have emerged as possible destinations among fans, while other promotions could also attempt to secure the former WWE star.
READ MORE: Former WWE Star Teases Violent Match With Ilja Dragunov After Recent Exit
The post Ex-WWE Star Clarifies 90-Day Non-Compete Misconception After Ilja Dragunov’s Exit appeared first on Wrestlezone.
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