Former WWE ID talent Zayda Steel made her Ring of Honor debut on Tuesday’s special episode of ROH TV, immediately challenging established star Leila Grey to a match.

Steel interrupted a backstage interview with Grey and Lexy Nair, confidently stating that while she may be new to the promotion, many already know her as “the real deal.” She challenged Grey directly, saying “From one baddy to another, what do you say?”


Grey accepted the challenge, responding “I respect it. You want it? You got it. But I’m warning you. I can be a real baddie when I want to.” While no official date has been set for the match, both competitors made it clear they’re ready to face each other soon.

Steel, 21, was one of the first talents announced for WWE’s ID program when it launched in October 2024. The developmental initiative provides independent wrestlers with financial support and training opportunities while creating a potential pathway to NXT.

In October 2025, Steel announced she would not renew her 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,” she said at the time.

During her WWE ID tenure, Steel competed on WWE EVOLVE and challenged for the inaugural WWE Women’s ID Championship in August at GCW’s ID Showcase, where Kylie Rae defeated Steel and Zara Zakher in a triple threat match.

Since becoming a free agent, Steel has remained active on the independent circuit. She challenged former NXT Women’s Champion Indi Hartwell for the House of Glory Women’s Championship in October and has competed for promotions including Dream Star Fighting Marigold in Japan and Major League Wrestling.

Reports from Fightful Select indicated that AEW showed interest in Steel following her WWE departure, though she had not signed with the promotion as of late November.

Her Ring of Honor debut marks her first major televised appearance since leaving WWE’s developmental system less than two months ago, adding another chapter to what’s been a busy schedule for the young prospect.