Ilja Dragunov to defend NXT UK title against Jordan Devlin

Ilja Dragunov’s next NXT United Kingdom Championship defense has been made official.

Dragunov will put his title on the line against Jordan Devlin on the Thursday, January 27 episode of NXT UK. It will be Dragunov’s third defense since becoming NXT UK Champion.

At NXT TakeOver 36 last August, Dragunov defeated WALTER to win the NXT UK title. He’s retained against A-Kid and Rampage Brown since then.

The feud between Dragunov and Devlin began when Devlin called Dragunov out on an episode of NXT UK last month. After Devlin mentioned Dragunov’s family, Dragunov attacked him and the two had to be separated by officials.

Devlin said he hopes Dragunov knows what he’s getting into by facing him. Devlin said he hopes Dragunov’s wife forgives Dragunov for it — and he hopes Dragunov can explain to his son Constantin why he’s had to grow up taking care of his daddy.

Devlin has called Dragunov pathetic for fighting for his fans and family. Devlin said Dragunov needs their approval, but all Devlin needs is himself.

Dragunov responded by explaining that his family isn’t a weakness, it’s what gives him strength.

WWE has also set a date for NXT UK’s next Heritage Cup Championship match. Noam Dar will defend the Heritage Cup trophy against A-Kid on NXT UK next Thursday.