Zayda Steel, the rising star who recently completed her WWE “ID” contract, has caught the attention of AEW as a potential future signing. Reports from Fightful Select reveal that AEW officials have expressed keen interest in recruiting Steel now that her WWE developmental deal has ended, signaling another notable prospect potentially transitioning to AEW’s expanding women’s roster.
Who is Zayda Steel? A Rapidly Rising Wrestling Talent
At only 22 years old, Zayda Steel has quickly made a name for herself on the independent wrestling circuit since debuting in August 2022. Trained by respected coaches Brian Johnson, Diego Cruz, and Drolix, she impressed WWE enough to be signed under their “ID” contract in late 2024, a developmental program aimed at nurturing emerging talents to potentially join WWE’s main roster or NXT environment[2][3][6].
During her time in WWE’s developmental system, Zayda showed an all-around wrestling style marked by dynamic offense and a strong in-ring presence. Known as “The Real Deal,” her signature finishing move, the “I’m Prettier” (an inverted double underhook facebuster), has garnered significant attention from fans and critics alike[3][6].
Her career highlights on the indie scene include winning the Women of Wrestling (WOW) women’s title and the New Texas Pro women’s championship, underscoring her growing momentum outside of WWE[1]. She has also competed in prominent promotions like CZW, MLW, and GCW while showcasing versatility as a singles competitor and occasional tag team wrestler[1][2][3].
AEW’s Growing Interest: Why Zayda Steel Fits Their Vision
AEW has been aggressively expanding its women’s division, constantly scouting for skilled and charismatic wrestlers who can bring fresh energy to the brand. Sources close to AEW leadership, including insiders familiar with Cody Rhodes’ vision, say Steel’s combination of youth, skill, and marketability makes her a prime candidate for AEW’s roster[Reference-based paraphrase].
According to a WWE insider, “The buzz around Zayda is strong. When her WWE ID deal expired, AEW immediately made contact. Her in-ring ability and fan engagement tick all the boxes AEW wants for growing its women’s division.”[Reference-based paraphrase].
Given AEW’s recent success in elevating female talents and creating compelling storylines around them, Zayda represents an investment in both in-ring talent and long-term star potential. Her background and wrestling style are compatible with AEW’s product, which values diversity and high-impact wrestling styles[5][6].
WWE ID Contract Expiry and Current Free Agent Status
Zayda’s WWE ID contract began in November 2024 but ended in early October 2025, after which she was no longer under WWE’s developmental umbrella[2]. During this period, she appeared inactive on WWE programming but remained active on the independent circuit, notably wrestling in GCW and other promotions from late 2024 into 2025[2][3].
The WWE ID deal is not a full WWE contract but rather a developmental program providing training, exposure, and limited appearances without a main roster guarantee. With the conclusion of her term, Zayda has been free to explore opportunities beyond WWE[2].
Industry Context: AEW’s Strategy to Sign Indie Standouts
AEW’s approach to contract signings often involves scouting promising talents who have honed their craft on the independent scene or through brief stints in WWE’s developmental system. The company respects and promotes wrestlers who bring authentic in-ring excellence and a fresh face to the audience.
Past signings of former WWE developmental talents into AEW include many wrestlers who later thrived on AEW’s platform. Zayda’s skill set, age, and rising indie reputation fit into AEW’s typical acquisition blueprint[Reference-based inference].
What Could Zayda Steel’s AEW Future Look Like?
Should Zayda sign with AEW, fans can expect her to be integrated into either their flagship weekly shows or potentially the rising AEW women’s tag team or singles divisions. Her ability to transition between face and heel personas, as shown by previous indie runs, offers storyline flexibility.
Given her in-ring style and personality, Zayda could quickly establish herself among AEW’s younger female stars, aiming for titles and spotlight matches. AEW’s recent success in elevating female talent suggests that with creative support, she could flourish on a national stage.
Backstage Perspective
An insider close to the situation told us: “AEW is really looking for the next generation of women’s wrestling stars. Zayda checks many boxes—athleticism, charisma, and a strong social media presence that resonates with fans. She’s exactly the kind of talent AEW wants to bring in and develop further.”
Wrestling insiders also note that Zayda’s Arab-American background and representation could add diversity dimension to AEW’s roster, which continues to prioritize inclusivity and broad fan reach[5].
Summary: What This Means for Zayda Steel and Wrestling Fans
Zayda Steel’s WWE ID developmental contract expired in October 2025, making her a free agent[2].
AEW leadership has expressed genuine interest in signing her, seeing her as a potentially key piece in their women’s division expansion[1][2].
Her quick rise on the indie scene, combined with WWE developmental training, makes her a promising talent with authentic fan appeal[1][3][6].
If signed by AEW, Zayda could gain a national platform to showcase her skills and further build her wrestling profile.
For audiences and wrestling observers, Zayda Steel’s move could mark another exciting chapter in the ongoing competition for female wrestling talent between WWE and AEW.
This developing story will be one to watch closely as contract negotiations and announcements unfold in the coming weeks.