Sami Zayn's Return to Indie Scene Is Positive News for WWE

On Monday, many NXT fans were surprised to hear that Sami Zayn's next pro wrestling appearance will not be on a show promoted by WWE—instead, he'll be present in a non-wrestling role for the live crowd at EVOLVE 49 and 50, scheduled to be broadcast from New York this Saturday and Sunday.

It might seem strange for WWE to allow a top NXT star to make his return to the independents, but it's clear that the company's view of its competition is beginning to change.

Earlier in the year, WrestlingInc reported that WWE was in talks with WWN—EVOLVE's parent company—to set up a working relationship. The thought was that WWN would use its independent brands as something of a feeder system for talent being considered for a run in NXT.

Ahead of NXT Takeover: Brooklyn, Triple H praised EVOLVE and WWN VP of Talent Relations Gabe Sapolsky. WrestleZone quotes The Game as saying "I love what Gabe does. I love what EVOLVE does...I support them in anyway I can."

Bleacher Report spoke to Sapolsky, who stated that Zayn's appearance demonstrates that "Triple H put his money where his mouth is."

"

This Is Real - Sami Zayn - EVOLVE 49 & 50 - This Saturday & Sunday - New York - http://t.co/OvzQlRwnhA pic.twitter.com/spGRF5dLLh

— Gabe Sapolsky (@BookItGabe) October 12, 2015"

"I really believe that in this era you need a special attraction," Sapolsky said in reference to Zayn's appearance. "Sami shines a big spotlight on us. It's a big opportunity that we have to make the most of."

While Sapolsky was reticent to say too much about any partnership between WWN and WWE, he reiterated that it's an exciting time to be a fan of both organizations, noting that his company was currently "sailing in uncharted waters."

"I'm not sure what the next phone call is going to bring or the next email is going to bring," said Sapolsky.

However, whatever the machinations of the arrangement, this is far from a one-sided deal. While EVOLVE will benefit from the national exposure an athlete like Zayn has gotten from his time in NXT, it seems that WWE is already using the promotion as a proving ground for future signings.

Several months ago, WrestlingInc reported that UFC fighter Matt Riddle was to receive a WWE tryout. This weekend, he makes his debut at EVOLVE, which seems likely to be evidence that EVOLVE is indeed being used as a "feeder system" for talent in need of experience before being sent to NXT.

"Matt Riddle is an extremely intriguing talent," said Sapolsky. "This guy is a total natural and a very hard worker—he wants it, he wants to make it in pro wrestling."

Zayn's appearance at EVOLVE 49 and 50 will no doubt be a major boon for the promotion and its fans—but if a working relationship is indeed being put in place, it offers a great deal of potential for both sides of the arrangement.

At a time when the world champion was forged on the independent scene, WWE is wise to build bridges with promotions like EVOLVE. An appearance from established talent like Zayn puts all eyes on the EVOLVE show—meanwhile, a prospect like Riddle can accumulate the seasoning he needs.