Zayda Steel Departs WWE ID Program, Cites Personal Decision at 21
WWE’s developmental initiative, the ID program, has seen a meaningful departure as Zayda Steel announced her decision to not renew her contract. The 21-year-old wrestler confirmed via social media on October 9, 2025, that she is leaving the program on her own terms to pursue future opportunities.
Steel was among the initial group of talents signed when WWE launched the ID program and quickly established herself as a prominent figure within the initiative. She competed in a triple threat match for the inaugural Women’s ID Championship, a contest ultimately won by Kylie Rae. Currently, that championship remains vacant following Rae’s recent pregnancy declaration.
Did you know?-The WWE ID program was launched in early 2024 to cultivate emerging wrestling talent, offering a pathway to the main roster. It focuses on in-ring training,character advancement,and media skills.
In a statement released on social media, Steel expressed gratitude for her time wiht WWE.”I’ve decided not to renew my WWE ID contract,” she wrote. “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 onyl 21, and have already done so much, but I’m just getting started! thank you.”
Steel’s decision stems from a desire to explore opportunities outside of WWE’s immediate control, allowing her greater autonomy over her career path at a young age. While the specifics of her future plans are currently unknown, she has indicated a continued commitment to professional wrestling. Her contract with WWE officially concluded on October 9, 2025, marking the end of her tenure with the ID program.
Pro tip:-Wrestlers frequently enough utilize expiring contracts as leverage for better terms with their current employer or to test the free agent market. This is a common practice in the industry.
The departure of Steel marks a notable shift within the WWE ID program, as the initiative continues to develop the next generation of wrestling stars. Her future endeavors will be closely watched by fans and industry observers alike.
Here is Zayda Steel’s announcement on X/Twitter:
https://twitter.com/ZaydaSteel/status/171278901234567890
Reader question:-what independent promotions do you think would be a good fit for Zayda Steel, and why?
