Zayda Steel Returned to AEW Collision
The wrestler made her comeback to AEW television after a hiatus that began in mid-August.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Wrestling
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Zayda Steel officially returned to AEW on the September 20, 2026, episode of Collision. She faced Thekla in a match that featured guest commentary from Willow Nightingale.
Why it matters
Steel's return marks her first AEW appearance since she was defeated by Mercedes Mone on August 15, 2026. She originally signed with the promotion at the start of 2026 following her departure from WWE ID in October 2025.
Thekla and Zayda Steel competed in a match on September 20, 2026, while contending for a top ranking. Willow Nightingale is currently scheduled to face Thekla at All Out on September 26, 2026.
The players
Zayda Steel
She is a professional wrestler who signed with AEW in early 2026 after concluding her tenure with WWE ID.
Thekla
She is an active professional wrestler currently competing in AEW matches.
Willow Nightingale
She is a professional wrestler who provided guest commentary for the match between Steel and Thekla.
Tony Khan
He serves as the primary executive and head of operations for All Elite Wrestling.
Mercedes Mone
She is an AEW wrestler who is scheduled to make her first title defense at WrestleDream 2026.
The details
Tony Khan reached out to Zayda Steel via text message to facilitate her return to the roster. Steel had previously left her role within the WWE ID program in October 2025 to pursue a new professional journey.
Timeline
October 2025: Zayda Steel left the WWE ID program.
August 15, 2026: Zayda Steel made her last AEW appearance before her hiatus.
September 20, 2026: Zayda Steel returned to AEW on Collision.
September 26, 2026: Thekla and Willow Nightingale will compete at All Out.
Season Trajectory
This return significantly shifts the women's division landscape heading into the upcoming All Out pay-per-view. It establishes new competitive stakes for wrestlers like Thekla and Willow Nightingale as they prepare for their scheduled matchup.
Thekla's participation in this match impacts the card balance for the upcoming All Out event where she is set to face Willow Nightingale. This development highlights the current ranking hierarchy within the AEW women's division for viewers tracking contention paths.
The takeaway
The wrestling industry often sees talent rotate between major promotions as performers seek new opportunities to advance their careers. Keeping track of these movements is essential for fans following the evolving storylines and divisional rankings in professional wrestling.
What happens next
Thekla and Willow Nightingale are scheduled to compete at All Out on September 26, 2026. Additionally, Mercedes Mone is slated to make her first title defense at WrestleDream 2026.
Further reading
For more information on the current roster and upcoming matchups, visit our Wrestling section.
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