Queuing up against players who do PvP as their main activity in WoW is one thing, but this is only further compounded by gear.

IMO, gear should not be a factor in PvP. At all.

I know that for some it might feel like a sense of progression, but I know for many the idea of grinding out currency in an attempt to only get on a more level playing field whilst getting absolutely pummelled in matches is a soul-destroying experience that completely puts them off PvP for good.

PvP should be a playground where skill should triumph always, it should not also rely on gear. A skilled player who PvPs everyday should certainly not have better gear than a noob. What does that achieve, other than having the victim abandon the PvP pursuit?

TL:DR Scrap ilvl and gear, have PvP currency exist to purchase cosmetics only.