WWE ID Program’s First Signing: Zayda Steel Makes History

One Big Thing

WWE’s groundbreaking Independent Development (ID) program has announced its first official signing: indie standout Zayda Steel from Combat Zone Wrestling (CZW).

Why It Matters

This signing represents WWE’s renewed commitment to cultivating independent talent, creating a structured pipeline from the indie scene to WWE’s development system. The program aims to bridge the gap between independent wrestling and WWE’s mainstream platform.

By The Numbers

• 1st official signing through the WWE ID program
• 20 independent wrestlers reportedly already under contract
• Part of WWE’s broader talent recruitment initiative launched in 2024

Key Details

The Announcement

• WWE ID confirmed the signing via Twitter
• Steel was scouted directly from CZW
• Represents Washington D.C.

Background

• Previously performed for Marigold promotion
• Left around the same time as current NXT star Giulia
• Brings significant indie wrestling experience

What’s Next

• More signings expected to be announced soon
• Next announcement scheduled for this Sunday at Reality of Wrestling
• Program expected to continue expanding its roster

Behind The Scenes

The WWE ID program represents a significant shift in WWE’s talent acquisition strategy, focusing on identifying and developing promising independent wrestlers through a structured system.

“This program marks a new era in how WWE discovers and develops talent from the independent scene,” says Paul Levesque, WWE’s Chief Content Officer.

What do you think about WWE’s new approach to signing independent talent through the ID program? Which indie wrestler would you like to see join WWE next? Share your thoughts in the comments below!