Recent WWE Departure Makes Debut For Rival Promotion

By Andrew Ravens‎

Contributing Sports Writer

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Less than two months after her departure from the WWE system, Zayda Steel has resurfaced in a major way. The former WWE ID prospect made her debut for Ring of Honor on the December 2 special Tuesday episode of "ROH TV," immediately inserting herself into the mix of the women's division. The appearance marks her first televised showing since opting not to renew her contract with WWE in October.

Steel wasted no time making her presence felt, interrupting a backstage interview with established "ROH" talent Leila Grey. During the segment, Steel expressed confidence in her reputation despite being a newcomer to the brand.

Zayda said she might be new to ROH, but people already know her as the Real Deal. Zayda said that she wanted a match with Leila.

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Grey, a member of the "Sky Flight" faction alongside Top Flight, responded to the challenge with mutual respect but did not back down. Leila said she respected Zayda for stepping up, and agreed to face her.

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While the match was verbally agreed upon, no official date has been confirmed for the bout. The interaction suggests that Steel will be positioned as a serious competitor right out of the gate, bypassing the traditional squash match introduction often given to new signees.

Steel’s arrival in "ROH" comes after a notable stint in the WWE ID program, an initiative launched to recruit independent talent and provide them a pathway to "NXT". Steel was one of the first wrestlers signed to the program and became a regular fixture on the "WWE EVOLVE" brand.

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During her time there, she was a key member of the "Swipe Right" stable, also known as The Vanity Project, where she often appeared alongside Brad Baylor and Ricky Smokes. Her work with the group drew praise for her character work and charisma, with some outlets labeling the faction as a "breakout" act for the brand.

However, Steel announced in October that she would not be renewing her contract with WWE. In a statement posted to social media at the time, she emphasized her youth and desire to explore other opportunities.

"I've decided not to renew my WWE ID contract. I'm incredibly grateful for all the knowledge, experience, and opportunities I've gained along the way, but at the end of the day, I have to do what's best for me. I'm only 21, and have already done so much, but I'm just getting started," Steel wrote.

Since becoming a free agent, Steel has remained active on the independent circuit. In October, shortly after her WWE exit, she challenged former "NXT" Women's Champion Indi Hartwell for the House of Glory Women's Championship in New York City. She has also competed for promotions such as Dream Star Fighting Marigold in Japan and Major League Wrestling, further diversifying her resume before landing in "ROH". Her debut adds depth to a women's roster that currently features champions like Athena and rising stars like Persephone.

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