WrestleMania 41 weekend just got even more stacked, and now we know who’s kicking off WWE’s next big talent showcase.
WWE ID announced the first official match for their inaugural championship tournament, and it’s a banger: Zayda Steel vs. Kylie Rae. The match will go down at Game Changer Wrestling’s event in Las Vegas on April 16—one of two indie shows WWE is working with to launch its new titles.
Triple H introduced the WWE ID Championships back on February 18, revealing both men’s and women’s titles would be up for grabs through a tournament-style bracket. The twist? These titles are exclusively for the company’s Independent Development program signees—a move that WWE hopes will spotlight rising stars from the indie circuit.
“This is the next generation’s proving ground,” Triple H said when introducing the concept. “They’re hungry, they’re dangerous, and they’re ready to take over.”
Zayda Steel made history as the first-ever WWE ID signing, so it’s no surprise she’s front and center in this tournament. But her opponent, Kylie Rae, comes in with a wealth of experience and a reputation for stealing the show wherever she goes. It’s a perfect clash between potential and polish—and someone’s dream of championship gold is about to get crushed.
No other tournament matches have been announced just yet, but WWE is expected to reveal more details in the coming days as the build to WrestleMania 41 heats up.
Who do you have walking away with the win—Zayda Steel or Kylie Rae? And what do you think about WWE using indie promotions to crown their newest champions? Drop your take in the comments below and let us know who you’re rooting for!