Sami Zayn

Rami Sebei was born on July 12, 1984 in Laval, Quebec, Canada,{{cite web |last=Thompson |first=Anthony |date=April 14, 2018 |title=Sami Zayn Sends Out A Message Having To Do With Helping Those Who Were Affected By The Recent Events In Syria |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/sami-zayn-sends-out-message-having-do-helping-those-who-were-affected-recent-events-syria |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200415084644/https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/sami-zayn-sends-out-message-having-do-helping-those-who-were-affected-recent-events-syria |archive-date=April 15, 2020 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=Fightful.com}} to Syrian migrants who relocated from Homs to Laval in the 1970s.{{Cite news |last=Naar |first=Ismaeel |date=April 16, 2016 |title=Canadian-Syrian WWE star Sami Zayn 'proud to represent Arabs' |url=http://english.alarabiya.net/en/sports/2016/04/15/Canadian-Syrian-WWE-star-Sami-Zayn-proud-to-represent-Arabs-.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160630171319/http://english.alarabiya.net/en/sports/2016/04/15/Canadian-Syrian-WWE-star-Sami-Zayn-proud-to-represent-Arabs-.html |archive-date=June 30, 2016 |access-date=March 27, 2017 |work=Al Arabiya}}

Sebei made his professional wrestling debut on March 1, 2002, for the FLQ promotion in Quebec as Stevie McFly.{{Cite web |last=Kreikenbohm |first=Philip |title=El Generico's matches in 2002 |url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=1523&view=&page=4&gimmick=&year=2002&promotion=®ion=&location=&arena=&showtype=&constellationType=&worker= |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250428142952/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=1523&view=&page=4&gimmick=&year=2002&promotion=®ion=&location=&arena=&showtype=&constellationType=&worker= |archive-date=April 28, 2025 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=Cagematch.net}} On July 14, as El Generico, he made his International Wrestling Syndicate (IWS) debut at Scarred For Life in a count out victory. On October 18, 2003, at Blood, Sweat and Beers, Pierre Carl Ouellet defeated Generico and Kevin Steen in a triple threat match.{{Cite web |last=Kreikenbohm |first=Philip |title=El Generico's matches in 2003 |url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=1523&view=&page=4&gimmick=&year=2003&promotion=®ion=&location=&arena=&showtype=&constellationType=&worker= |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250428144053/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=1523&view=&page=4&gimmick=&year=2003&promotion=®ion=&location=&arena=&showtype=&constellationType=&worker= |archive-date=April 28, 2025 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=Cagematch.net}}

On November 15, at Payback's A Bitch, El Generico defeated Steen in their first-ever singles match against each other. IWS held its fifth-anniversary show "V" on June 15, 2004, at Le SPAG, where Generico defeated PCO to win his first IWS World Heavyweight Championship, only to have Steen cash in his number one contendership (won earlier in the night against Excess 69) and defeat Generico for the title.{{Cite web |last=Kreikenbohm |first=Philip |title=El Generico's matches in 2004 |url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=1523&view=&page=4&gimmick=&year=2004&promotion=®ion=&location=&arena=&showtype=&constellationType=&worker= |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250428144313/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=1523&view=&page=4&gimmick=&year=2004&promotion=®ion=&location=&arena=&showtype=&constellationType=&worker= |archive-date=April 28, 2025 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=Cagematch.net}} On September 11, at CZW High Stakes II, Generico, Steen and Excess 69 lost to SeXXXy Eddy in an IWS four-way match which was unofficially chosen as "CZW Match of the Year".{{cite web |last=Ryan |first=Michael |date=November 8, 2008 |title=Great crowd basks in ROH's Montreal debut |url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2008/11/08/pf-7347596.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180730080734/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2008/11/08/pf-7347596.html |archive-date=July 30, 2018 |access-date=September 1, 2016 |work=Slam! Sports |publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}

On February 16, 2008, Generico defeated Steen for the IWS World Heavyweight Championship at Violent Valentine.{{Cite web |last=Kreikenbohm |first=Philip |title=El Generico's matches in 2008 |url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=1523&view=&page=4&gimmick=&year=2008&promotion=®ion=&location=&arena=&showtype=&constellationType=&worker= |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250428144743/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=1523&view=&page=4&gimmick=&year=2008&promotion=®ion=&location=&arena=&showtype=&constellationType=&worker= |archive-date=April 28, 2025 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=Cagematch.net}} He lost the title on March 22, at Know Your Enemies, to Steen in a three-way match also involving Max Boyer.

In 2004, El Generico began making appearances in the independent promotion Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG). El Generico held the PWG World Tag Team Championship five times with four different partners: with Human Tornado as 2 Skinny Black Guys, Quicksilver as Cape Fear, Kevin Steen, and Paul London as ¡Peligro Abejas!. Generico is also the only participant to consecutively appear in the first eight Battle of Los Angeles tournaments from 2005. On February 24, 2007, Generico defeated former partner Tornado to win the PWG World Championship during his title run with Cape Fear. Later that year, while Generico was still World Champion, he and Steen defeated PAC and Roderick Strong for the belts.

In mid-2009, Generico entered a lengthy feud with the tag team Men of Low Moral Fiber, consisting of Kenny Omega and Chuck Taylor, recruiting Colt Cabana, referee Rick Knox, and former partner Human Tornado (effectively reuniting 2 Skinny Black Guys) to stand by his side. At PWG's sixth anniversary event, Threemendous II, 2 Skinny Black Guys defeated current champions The Young Bucks in a non-title match, giving the Bucks their first tag team loss in almost a year and a half. On November 21, on Night 2 of the 2009 Battle of Los Angeles, Generico and Kevin Steen failed to win the titles from the Bucks.{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=November 22, 2009 |title=PWG News: Results from the Battle of Los Angeles tournament to determine the new PWG champion |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_36919.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091123093253/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_36919.shtml |archive-date=November 23, 2009 |access-date=December 28, 2009 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}

On May 9, 2010, Generico teamed up with Paul London as ¡Peligro Abejas! (translated as Danger Bees!) in the fourth annual Dynamite Duumvirate Tag Team Title Tournament eight-team tag tournament. After defeating Chuck Taylor and Scott Lost in the first round and the Briscoe Brothers (Jay and Mark) in the semifinals, Generico and London defeated the Young Bucks in the finals of the tournament to not only win DDT4, but also the PWG World Tag Team Championship, Generico's fifth time holding the title.{{cite web |last1=Fleeman Martinez |first1=Luke |last2=Massingham |first2=Matt |date=May 9, 2010 |title=5/9 PWG in SoCal: DDT4 tag tournament – GenMe (Young Bucks) vs. Paul London & El Generico finals |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_41197.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100614135247/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_41197.shtml |archive-date=June 14, 2010 |access-date=May 10, 2010 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On December 11, El Generico earned himself a shot at the PWG World Championship when ¡Peligro Abejas! successfully defended the PWG World Tag Team Championship against Kings of Wrestling (Chris Hero and PWG World Champion Claudio Castagnoli).{{cite web |last=Csonka |first=Larry |date=December 13, 2010 |title=PWG Cyanide: A Loving Tribute to Poison Report 12.11.10 |url=http://www.411mania.com/wrestling/news/166011/PWG-Cyanide:-A-Loving-Tribute-to-Poison-Report-12.11.10.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140117015753/http://www.411mania.com/wrestling/news/166011/PWG-Cyanide:-A-Loving-Tribute-to-Poison-Report-12.11.10.htm |archive-date=January 17, 2014 |access-date=December 13, 2010 |work=411Mania}} Generico received his shot at the PWG World Championship on January 29, 2011, during the WrestleReunion 5 weekend, but was defeated by Castagnoli.{{cite web |last=Massingham |first=Matt |date=January 30, 2011 |title=1/29 PWG results in Los Angeles: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of PWG Title match, Kaval vs. Davey, Roberts retirement, Legends Battle Royal |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_47214.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200730130720/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_47214.shtml |archive-date=July 30, 2020 |access-date=January 30, 2011 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On April 9, El Generico teamed with Ricochet, who filled in for London who was unable to appear at the event, where they lost the PWG World Tag Team Championship back to The Young Bucks.{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=April 9, 2011 |title=PWG News: PWG Title & Tag Titles on the line at "Winning" Saturday night – Low-Ki, Claudio, Strong, GenMe, Steen, Tozawa scheduled |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_49178.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110411051829/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_49178.shtml |archive-date=April 11, 2011 |access-date=April 10, 2011 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=April 10, 2011 |title=PWG News: TNA tag team captures PWG Tag Titles at "Winning," Steen scratched, Low-Ki, Claudio retains top title |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_49196.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110412131505/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_49196.shtml |archive-date=April 12, 2011 |access-date=April 10, 2011 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On August 20, Generico entered the 2011 Battle of Los Angeles, defeating Castagnoli and Willie Mack in his first round and semifinal matches. Later that night, Generico defeated Steen in the finals to win the tournament, becoming the first person to have won the PWG World and World Tag Team championships as well as the DDT4 and Battle of Los Angeles tournaments and earning a match for Steen's PWG World Championship.{{cite web |last=Massingham |first=Matt |date=August 21, 2011 |title=8/20 PWG results in Reseda, Calif.: BOLA tournament winner, Young Bucks not shaking hands turned into angle, Tag Title match, Finlay debuts |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_52395.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110906080652/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_52395.shtml |archive-date=September 6, 2011 |access-date=August 21, 2011 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On October 22, El Generico defeated Steen in a ladder match, following outside interference from The Young Bucks, to win the PWG World Championship for the second time.{{cite web |last=Massingham |first=Matt |date=October 23, 2011 |title=10/22 PWG results Reseda, Calif.: PWG Title change, SoCal character returns, Young Bucks vs. Future Shock for Tag Titles |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_54484.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111024094726/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_54484.shtml |archive-date=October 24, 2011 |access-date=October 23, 2011 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On March 17, 2012, El Generico re-lost the title to Steen in a three-way match, which also included Eddie Edwards.{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=March 18, 2012 |title=PWG Title changes hands Saturday |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/quicknews/article_59248.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120320000420/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/quicknews/article_59248.shtml |archive-date=March 20, 2012 |access-date=March 18, 2012 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}

El Generico made his farewell appearance for PWG on January 12, 2013, when he and Steen entered the 2013 Dynamite Duumvirate Tag Team Title Tournament. After wins over the Briscoe Brothers and Future Shock (Adam Cole and Kyle O'Reilly), Generico and Steen were defeated in the finals of the tournament by The Young Bucks.{{cite web |last=Massingham |first=Matt |date=January 13, 2013 |title=Show Results – 1/12 PWG DDT4 tournament in Reseda, Calif.: Complete coverage of new PWG tag champs, Generico's farewell, more |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_67840.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130117065154/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_67840.shtml |archive-date=January 17, 2013 |access-date=January 13, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}

File:¡3.0lé!.jpg as ¡3.0lé! during the 2011 King of Trios in April 2011]]

On February 19, 2005, El Generico made his debut for Philadelphia, Pennsylvania–based promotion Chikara, taking part in the 2005 Tag World Grand Prix, where he teamed with Steen as Team IWS. The team made it to the quarterfinals of the tournament, before being defeated by the SuperFriends (Chris Hero and Mike Quackenbush).{{cite web |last=Donaldson |first=Magnus |date=May 29, 2007 |title=The Magnus Analysis- Chikara Tag World Grand Prix 2005 Night 3 |url=http://www.411mania.com/wrestling/video_reviews/53132/The-Magnus-Analysis--Chikara-Tag-World-Grand-Prix-2005-Night-3.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071018120739/http://www.411mania.com/wrestling/video_reviews/53132/The-Magnus-Analysis--Chikara-Tag-World-Grand-Prix-2005-Night-3.htm |archive-date=October 18, 2007 |access-date=April 17, 2011 |work=411Mania}}

Three years later, El Generico returned to Chikara to take part in the 2008 King of Trios, where he teamed with Player Uno and Stupefied, again, as Team IWS. After defeating the F1rst Family (Arik Cannon, Darin Corbin and Ryan Cruz) in their first round match on March 1, Team IWS was eliminated from the tournament later that same day by eventual tournament winners Los Luchadores de Mexico (Incognito, Lince Dorado and El Pantera).{{cite web |last=Vetter |first=Chris |date=March 4, 2008 |title=Torch Indy Weekend Report: Mexican team wins in Chikara, Christian over Styles, Kingston over Scorpio |url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_24741.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110606080922/http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_24741.shtml |archive-date=June 6, 2011 |access-date=April 17, 2011 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} The following year, on March 27, El Generico returned for the 2009 King of Trios, teaming with Matt and Nick Jackson as Team PWG. They were eliminated from the tournament in the first round by The Osirian Portal (Amasis, Escorpion Egipcio and Ophidian).{{cite web |last=Coale |first=Mark |date=March 28, 2009 |title=CHIKARA King of Trios first night report 3-27 Philadelphia plus tonight's lineup |url=http://www.f4wonline.com/content/view/8795/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090401202957/http://www.f4wonline.com/content/view/8795/ |archive-date=April 1, 2009 |access-date=April 17, 2011 |work=Wrestling Observer Newsletter}} The following day, El Generico entered the Rey de Voladores tournament, but lost to Kota Ibushi in his four-way elimination semifinal match, which also included Jigsaw and Nick Jackson.{{cite web |last=Coale |first=Mark |date=March 29, 2009 |title=CHIKARA King of Trios tournament second day 3–28 Philadelphia with today's final day card |url=http://www.f4wonline.com/content/view/8804/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090402045932/http://www.f4wonline.com/content/view/8804/ |archive-date=April 2, 2009 |access-date=April 17, 2011 |work=Wrestling Observer Newsletter}} On the third night of the tournament, Generico lost to Arik Cannon.{{cite web |last=Coale |first=Mark |date=March 30, 2009 |title=CHIKARA King of Trios final day report 3-29 Philadelphia |url=http://www.f4wonline.com/component/content/article/8816/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120616053704/http://www.f4wonline.com/component/content/article/8816/ |archive-date=June 16, 2012 |access-date=April 17, 2011 |work=Wrestling Observer Newsletter}}

File:123 Kid embraces El Generico after their match at King of Trios 2011, Night 3.jpg (left) embracing Generico after their match at King of Trios in April 2011]]

El Generico next appeared for Chikara on January 23, 2011, losing to Eddie Kingston.{{Cite web |last=Ford |first=Kevin |date=February 13, 2011 |title=100 Percent Fordified: CHIKARA Chaos in the Sea of Lost Souls |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/100-percent-fordified-chikara-chaos-in-the-sea-of-lost-souls/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160204100509/https://411mania.com/wrestling/100-percent-fordified-chikara-chaos-in-the-sea-of-lost-souls/ |archive-date=February 4, 2016 |access-date=April 27, 2025 |website=411Mania}} For the 2011 King of Trios, El Generico came together with 3.0 (Scott Parker and Shane Matthews) to form ¡3.0le!. The team was eliminated from the tournament in the first round by The Osirian Portal (Amasis, Hieracon and Ophidian).{{cite web |last=Radican |first=Sean |date=May 4, 2011 |title=Radican's Chikara KoT Night 1 DVD Review 4/15 – Team Michinoku Pro vs. Team 1–2–3 Kid, Quackenbush & Toyota & Jigsaw vs. SAT's |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/DVDs_-_VGames_-_Books_25/article_49808.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120330083713/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/DVDs_-_VGames_-_Books_25/article_49808.shtml |archive-date=March 30, 2012 |access-date=May 5, 2011 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} The following day, Generico entered his second Rey de Voladores and defeated Pinkie Sanchez, Zack Sabre Jr. and Marshe Rockett in his four-way elimination semifinal match to qualify for the following day's finals,{{cite web |last=Radican |first=Sean |date=May 13, 2011 |title=Radican's Chikara DVD review series – "King of Trios 2011 Night 2" 4/16: F.I.S.T. vs. Osaka Pro, RDV tournament, Quackenbush & Toyota & Jigsaw vs. Michinoku Pro |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/DVDs_-_VGames_-_Books_25/article_50050.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121009084643/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/DVDs_-_VGames_-_Books_25/article_50050.shtml |archive-date=October 9, 2012 |access-date=May 14, 2011 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} where he defeated the 1–2–3 Kid to win the 2011 Rey de Voladores.{{cite web |last=Radican |first=Sean |date=June 5, 2011 |title=Radican's Chikara DVD review series: "KOT 2011: Night 3 4/17 – Kid vs. Generico, Toyota vs. Eagles, KOT tournament finals |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/DVDs_-_VGames_-_Books_25/article_50557.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121010080112/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/DVDs_-_VGames_-_Books_25/article_50557.shtml |archive-date=October 10, 2012 |access-date=June 5, 2011 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On July 30, ¡3.0le! defeated F.I.S.T. (Chuck Taylor, Icarus and Johnny Gargano), but lost to the Spectral Envoy (Frightmare, Hallowicked and UltraMantis Black) the following day.{{cite web |last=Martin |first=Adam |date=August 2, 2011 |title=Indy News #4: Chikara weekend results |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1312312490 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140815234037/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1312312490 |archive-date=August 15, 2014 |access-date=August 2, 2011 |work=WrestleView}}

El Generico first wrestled for Ring of Honor (ROH) at Final Battle on December 26, 2004, as The Weapon Of Mask Destruction #2, where he was defeated by Jay Lethal.{{Cite web |last=Ziegler |first=Jacob |date=May 29, 2005 |title=ROH: Final Battle 2004: December 26, 2004: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-final-battle-2004-december-26-2004-philadelphia-pennsylvania/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250126131523/https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-final-battle-2004-december-26-2004-philadelphia-pennsylvania/ |archive-date=January 26, 2025 |access-date=April 27, 2025 |website=411Mania}} He competed in a Four Corner Survival match on February 19, 2005 at Do Or Die IV, but was unsuccessful.{{Cite web |title=ROH Do Or Die IV |url=http://www.profightdb.com/cards/roh/do-or-die-iv-699.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250219232833/http://www.profightdb.com/cards/roh/do-or-die-iv-699.html |archive-date=February 19, 2025 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=The Internet Wrestling Database}} Generico teamed with the Ring Crew Express (Dunn and Marcos) in the Trios Tournament 2005, losing to the Rottweilers.{{Cite web |last=Ziegler |first=Jacob |date=July 22, 2005 |title=ROH Trios Tournament 2005: March 5, 2005 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-trios-tournament-2005-march-5-2005-philadelphia-pennsylvania/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230516064443/https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-trios-tournament-2005-march-5-2005-philadelphia-pennsylvania/ |archive-date=May 16, 2023 |access-date=April 27, 2025 |website=411Mania}} Generico lost to Roderick Strong at Stalemate on April 16{{Cite web |last=Dunn |first=J.D. |date=February 2, 2007 |title=Dark Pegasus Video Review: Ring of Honor — Stalemate |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/dark-pegasus-video-review-ring-of-honor-stalemate/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230516065509/https://411mania.com/wrestling/dark-pegasus-video-review-ring-of-honor-stalemate/ |archive-date=May 16, 2023 |access-date=April 27, 2025 |website=411Mania}} and Austin Aries at Fate of an Angel on July 16,{{Cite web |last=Dunn |first=J.D. |date=March 7, 2007 |title=Dark Pegasus Video Review: Ring of Honor — Fate of an Angel |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/dark-pegasus-video-review-ring-of-honor-fate-of-an-angel/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250428071651/https://411mania.com/wrestling/dark-pegasus-video-review-ring-of-honor-fate-of-an-angel/ |archive-date=April 28, 2025 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}} but achieved his first victory against Kevin Steen on July 23 at The Homecoming (despite the match not making it onto the event's DVD).{{Cite web |last=Ziegler |first=Jacob |date=December 25, 2005 |title=ROH The Homecoming: July 23, 2005, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-the-homecoming-july-23-2005-philadelphia-pennsylvania/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241228160931/https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-the-homecoming-july-23-2005-philadelphia-pennsylvania/ |archive-date=December 28, 2024 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania |quote=El Generico beat Kevin Steen in a match that apparently wasn’t good enough to make the tape.}} After a loss to Homicide on August 27 at Dragon Gate Invasion,{{Cite web |last=Dunn |first=J.D. |date=March 28, 2007 |title=Dark Pegasus Video Review: Ring of Honor — Dragon Gate Invasion |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/dark-pegasus-video-review-ring-of-honor-dragon-gate-invasion/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250428071244/https://411mania.com/wrestling/dark-pegasus-video-review-ring-of-honor-dragon-gate-invasion/ |archive-date=April 28, 2025 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}} Generico was not seen in ROH until he returned on November 25, 2006, at Dethroned, where he was defeated by Brent Albright.{{Cite web |last=Garoon & Ziegler |date=March 23, 2007 |title=ROH – Dethroned DVD Review |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-dethroned-dvd-review/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304111638/https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-dethroned-dvd-review/ |archive-date=March 4, 2016 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}}

On February 17, 2007, El Generico formed a permanent team with Kevin Steen, facing the Briscoe Brothers at Fifth Year Festival: Philly in a losing effort.{{Cite web |last=Garoon & Ziegler |date=May 21, 2007 |title=ROH – Fifth Year Festival: Philly DVD Review |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-fifth-year-festival-philly-dvd-review/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240924151708/https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-fifth-year-festival-philly-dvd-review/ |archive-date=September 24, 2024 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}} On April 14, Mark Briscoe returned in the middle of a match between Generico and Steen and his brother Jay and Erick Stevens at Fighting Spirit. Mark was attacked by the duo, however, and was pinned by Steen after a package piledriver.{{Cite web |last=Garoon & Ziegler |date=August 3, 2007 |title=ROH – Fighting Spirit DVD Review |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-fighting-spirit-dvd-review/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250422230720/https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-fighting-spirit-dvd-review/ |archive-date=April 22, 2025 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}} At Respect is Earned on July 1, Steen and El Generico defeated The Irish Airborne (Jake and Dave Crist), Pelle Primeau and Mitch Franklin, and Jimmy Rave and Adam Pearce in a Tag Team Scramble dark match. That same night, they brawled with the Briscoe Brothers, ending with Mark suffering a mild concussion from a steel chair shot.{{Cite web |last=Garoon & Ziegler |date=September 20, 2007 |title=ROH – Respect is Earned DVD Review |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-respect-is-earned-dvd-review/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151106032219/https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-respect-is-earned-dvd-review/ |archive-date=November 6, 2015 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}} At Driven on September 21, the Briscoe Brothers defeated Generico and Steen to retain the ROH World Tag Team Championship.{{Cite web |title=Driven 2007 results |url=https://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/rohppv/driven07/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080804070408/https://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/rohppv/driven07/ |archive-date=August 4, 2008 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |publisher=Online World of Wrestling}} At Death Before Dishonor V Night 1 on August 10, they defeated the Briscoes in a non-title Boston Street Fight.{{Cite web |last=Dykens |first=Brad |date=August 10, 2007 |title=Death Before Dishonor V (Night 1) |url=https://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/information/dvds/roh/death-before-dishonor-5-night-one/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080516081426/https://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/information/dvds/roh/death-before-dishonor-5-night-one/ |archive-date=May 16, 2008 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |publisher=Online World of Wrestling}} Generico and Steen then suffered three consecutive losses to the Briscoes at Caged Rage on August 24 in a steel cage match,{{Cite web |last=Dykens |first=Brad |date=August 24, 2007 |title=Caged Rage (DVD Review) |url=https://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/information/dvds/roh/caged-rage/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080706213119/https://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/information/dvds/roh/caged-rage/ |archive-date=July 6, 2008 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |publisher=Online World of Wrestling}} Manhattan Mayhem II on August 25 in a two out of three falls match,{{Cite web |last=Garoon & Ziegler |date=January 6, 2008 |title=ROH – Manhattan Mayhem II DVD Review |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-manhattan-mayhem-ii-dvd-review/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171225203437/https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-manhattan-mayhem-ii-dvd-review/ |archive-date=December 25, 2017 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}} and Man Up on November 30 in ROH's first-ever ladder match.{{Cite web |last=Csonka |first=Larry |date=December 1, 2007 |title=411’s ROH MAN UP Report 11.30.07 |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/411s-roh-man-up-report-11-30-07/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240607022736/https://411mania.com/wrestling/411s-roh-man-up-report-11-30-07/ |archive-date=June 7, 2024 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}}

File:El Generico in May 2008.jpg

In the midst of their feud, Generico emerged as a singles competitor in the 2007 Race to the Top tournament, defeating Delirious, Hero and Davey Richards, before losing to Claudio Castagnoli in the final round.{{Cite web |last=Garoon & Ziegler |date=November 2, 2007 |title=ROH – Race to the Top Tournament Night 1 DVD Review |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-race-to-the-top-tournament-night-1-dvd-review/ |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250428092142/https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-race-to-the-top-tournament-night-1-dvd-review/ |archive-date=April 28, 2025 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}}{{Cite web |last=Garoon & Ziegler |date=November 22, 2007 |title=ROH – Race to the Top Tournament Night 2 DVD Review |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-race-to-the-top-tournament-night-2-dvd-review/ |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250428091834/https://411mania.com/wrestling/roh-race-to-the-top-tournament-night-2-dvd-review/ |archive-date=April 28, 2025 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}} At Up For Grabs on June 6, 2008, Steen and Generico participated in a one night tournament to crown new ROH World Tag Team Champions, defeating Go Shiozaki and ROH World Champion Nigel McGuinness in the first round, Chris Hero and Adam Pearce in the second round, but losing to Jimmy Jacobs and Tyler Black in the finals.{{Cite web |last=Dunn |first=J.D. |date=August 14, 2008 |title=Dark Pegasus Video Review: Ring of Honor — Up For Grabs |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/dark-pegasus-video-review-ring-of-honor-up-for-grabs/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250422232504/https://411mania.com/wrestling/dark-pegasus-video-review-ring-of-honor-up-for-grabs/ |archive-date=April 22, 2025 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}} On August 15, Generico failed to win the ROH World Championship from McGuinness at Age of Insanity.{{Cite web |last=Dunn |first=J.D. |date=December 15, 2008 |title=Dark Pegasus Video Review: Ring of Honor — Age of Insanity |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/dark-pegasus-video-review-ring-of-honor-age-of-insanity/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241130091934/https://411mania.com/wrestling/dark-pegasus-video-review-ring-of-honor-age-of-insanity/ |archive-date=November 30, 2024 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}} On September 19, Generico and Steen defeated The Age of the Fall at Driven to win the ROH World Tag Team Championship. Generico again failed to win the title from McGuinness at Glory by Honor VII the next day,{{Cite web |last=Pantoja |first=Kevin |date=August 20, 2016 |title=Review of Honor: Glory by Honor VII (2008) |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/review-of-honor-glory-by-honor-vii-2008/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160821192430/https://411mania.com/wrestling/review-of-honor-glory-by-honor-vii-2008/ |archive-date=August 21, 2016 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}} in a fatal four-way match at The French Connnection on November 7,{{Cite web |last=Dunn |first=J.D. |date=January 14, 2009 |title=Dark Pegasus Video Review: Ring of Honor — The French Connection |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/dark-pegasus-video-review-ring-of-honor-the-french-connection/ |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250428100311/https://411mania.com/wrestling/dark-pegasus-video-review-ring-of-honor-the-french-connection/ |archive-date=April 28, 2025 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}} and at Caged Collision on January 31, 2009 (which aired on April 17).{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=April 17, 2009 |title=4/17 Powell's ROH "Caged Collision" PPV review: War Games-style main event, Nigel McGuinness defends the ROH Title against El Generico, Bryan Danielson vs. Austin Aries vs. Jimmy Jacobs vs. Tyler Black |url=https://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHPPVreports/4_17_Powell_s_ROH_Caged_Collision_PPV_review_War_Games-style_main_event_Nigel_McGuinness_defends_the_ROH_Title_against_El_Generico_Bryan_Danielson_vs_Austin_Aries_vs_Jimmy_Jacobs_vs_Tyler_Black_printer.shtml |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250428100904/https://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHPPVreports/4_17_Powell_s_ROH_Caged_Collision_PPV_review_War_Games-style_main_event_Nigel_McGuinness_defends_the_ROH_Title_against_El_Generico_Bryan_Danielson_vs_Austin_Aries_vs_Jimmy_Jacobs_vs_Tyler_Black_printer.shtml |archive-date=April 28, 2025 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At a television taping on April 10, Generico and Steen lost the ROH World Tag Team Championship to The American Wolves (Eddie Edwards and Davey Richards). Shortly after, Generico suffered a knee injury, but he returned to action the following month.{{Cite web |last=Johnson |first=Mike |date=April 23, 2009 |title=El Generico injury update, Ric Flair ROH debut released on DVD |url=https://www.pwinsider.com/article/38225/el-generico-injury-update-ric-flair-roh-debut-released-on-dvd.html?p=1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250428074228/https://www.pwinsider.com/article/38225/el-generico-injury-update-ric-flair-roh-debut-released-on-dvd.html?p=1 |archive-date=April 28, 2025 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Insider}}{{Cite web |last=Csonka |first=Larry |date=May 30, 2009 |title=Complete ROH on HDNet Taping Results: Episodes 13, 14 and 15 (SPOILERS) |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/complete-roh-on-hdnet-taping-results-episodes-13-14-and-15-spoilers/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411180108/https://411mania.com/wrestling/complete-roh-on-hdnet-taping-results-episodes-13-14-and-15-spoilers/ |archive-date=April 11, 2016 |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=411Mania}}

On December 19, at Final Battle, ROH's first live pay-per-view, after a loss to The Young Bucks, El Generico was attacked by Steen.{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=December 19, 2009 |title=Caldwell's Ring of Honor PPV Report 12/19: Ongoing 'virtual time' coverage of ROH's first online PPV – Austin Aries vs. Tyler Black |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_37521.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141019133138/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_37521.shtml |archive-date=October 19, 2014 |access-date=December 20, 2009 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} He then formed a team with Colt Cabana and together the two of them started a feud with Steen and his new partner Steve Corino. At The Big Bang! on April 3, 2010, Generico and Cabana defeated Steen and Corino via disqualification, when Steen used a chair on his former partner.{{cite web |last=Radican |first=Sean |date=April 3, 2010 |title=Radican's ROH The Big Bang PPV Blog 4/3: Black vs. Aries vs. Strong, Briscoes vs. KOW |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_40401.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101222083303/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_40401.shtml |archive-date=December 22, 2010 |access-date=September 12, 2010 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On June 19, at Death Before Dishonor VIII, Generico lost to Steen.{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=June 19, 2010 |title=Caldwell's Ring of Honor PPV report 6/19: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Death Before Dishonor VIII Internet PPV |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_42063.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140325225130/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_42063.shtml |archive-date=March 25, 2014 |access-date=September 12, 2010 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On September 11, at Glory By Honor IX, Generico and Cabana defeated Steen and Corino in a Double Chain match, when Cabana forced Corino to tap out. After the match, Steen attacked El Generico and unmasked him.{{cite web |last1=Caldwell |first1=James |last2=Radican |first2=Sean |date=September 11, 2010 |title=9/11 ROH internet PPV live results: Caldwell & Radican's coverage of "Glory by Honor IX" – ROH Title match, Haas & Benjamin debut |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_43710.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100913051136/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_43710.shtml |archive-date=September 13, 2010 |access-date=September 12, 2010 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} At Final Battle on December 18, El Generico and Steen ended their year-long feud in an unsanctioned Fight Without Honor, where Generico put his mask on the line against Steen's ROH career. Generico won the match and thus forced Steen out of Ring of Honor.{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=December 18, 2010 |title=Caldwell's Ring of Honor PPV report 12/18: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of "Final Battle 2010" – Strong vs. Richards, Generico vs. Steen |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_46163.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110316024638/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_46163.shtml |archive-date=March 16, 2011 |access-date=December 18, 2010 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On March 2, 2011, ROH announced that El Generico had signed a new contract with the promotion.{{cite web |date=March 2, 2011 |title=Ring of Honor Re-Signs Top Talents |url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/news/ring-of-honor-re-signs-top-talents/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110305184620/http://www.rohwrestling.com/news/ring-of-honor-re-signs-top-talents/ |archive-date=March 5, 2011 |access-date=March 2, 2011 |work= |publisher=Ring of Honor}}

On Night 1 of Honor Takes Center Stage on April 1, Generico lost to House of Truth's Michael Elgin after interference from a masked man.{{cite web |last1=Caldwell |first1=James |last2=Radican |first2=Sean |date=April 1, 2011 |title=ROH Internet PPV report 4/1: Caldwell & Radican's "virtual-time" coverage of live ROH PPV from Atlanta |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_48952.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110624090625/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_48952.shtml |archive-date=June 24, 2011 |access-date=April 10, 2011 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} The following day, he defeated another House of Truth member, Roderick Strong, but after the match was attacked by Elgin and stable leader Truth Martini. Cabana came out to make the save but was stopped by the House of Truth's advantage in numbers. Christopher Daniels then came out to seemingly help the two, however, he turned on Generico and Cabana, joining the House of Truth and revealing himself as the man who had cost Generico his match against Elgin.{{cite web |last1=Caldwell |first1=James |last2=Radican |first2=Sean |date=April 2, 2011 |title=ROH Internet PPV report 4/2: Caldwell & Radican's ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live ROH PPV from Atlanta |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_48974.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110609040535/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_48974.shtml |archive-date=June 9, 2011 |access-date=April 10, 2011 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On June 26, at Best in the World 2011, Generico defeated Daniels to win the ROH World Television Championship.{{cite web |last=Radican |first=Sean |date=June 26, 2011 |title=Radican's "Best in the World" internet PPV report 6/26: Ongoing "real-time" coverage of live PPV from New York City |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_51045.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120327151705/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_51045.shtml |archive-date=March 27, 2012 |access-date=June 27, 2011 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} He lost the title to Jay Lethal on August 13 at the first Ring of Honor Wrestling tapings under the Sinclair Broadcast Group banner.{{cite web |date=August 14, 2011 |title=ROH News: Notes from Saturday's first ROH TV taping under Sinclair Broadcasting (contains spoilers) |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ROH_News_29/article_52096.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111109080141/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ROH_News_29/article_52096.shtml |archive-date=November 9, 2011 |access-date=August 14, 2011 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}

File:Generico vs. Steen.jpg at Showdown in the Sun in March 2012]]

After a loss to the reinstated Kevin Steen in a Last Man Standing match on March 30, 2012, at Showdown in the Sun, El Generico disappeared from ROH.{{cite web |last=Namako |first=Jason |date=March 30, 2012 |title=ROH Showdown in the Sun iPPV Results- 3/30/12 |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1333164189 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120402181353/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1333164189 |archive-date=April 2, 2012 |access-date=April 2, 2012 |work=WrestleView}} On October 13, at Glory By Honor XI: The Unbreakable Hope, Steen received a parcel containing Generico's mask.{{cite web |last=Namako |first=Jason |date=October 13, 2012 |title=ROH Glory by Honor XI Results – 10/13/12 |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1350183872 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141010074724/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1350183872 |archive-date=October 10, 2014 |access-date=October 14, 2012 |work=WrestleView}} Generico returned to ROH at Final Battle 2012: Doomsday on October 16, unsuccessfully challenging Steen for the ROH World Championship in a ladder war, which marked his last appearance in ROH.{{cite web |last=Namako |first=Jason |date=December 16, 2012 |title=ROH Final Battle Results – 12/16/12 |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1355697580 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121221011037/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1355697580 |archive-date=December 21, 2012 |access-date=December 16, 2012 |work=WrestleView}}

Generico travelled to Japan during the summer of 2007, where he worked for the Dragon Gate (DG) promotion as the gaijin (foreign) representative of the New Hazard stable.{{cite web |title= |script-title=ja:福岡・博多スターレーン |url=http://www.gaora.co.jp/dragongate/data/result/2007/0715.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080224012953/http://www.gaora.co.jp/dragongate/data/result/2007/0715.html |archive-date=February 24, 2008 |access-date=July 27, 2012 |work=Dragon Gate |language=ja}}{{cite web |title= |script-title=ja:東京・後楽園ホール |url=http://www.gaora.co.jp/dragongate/data/result/2007/0719.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080605192042/http://www.gaora.co.jp/dragongate/data/result/2007/0719.html |archive-date=June 5, 2008 |access-date=July 27, 2012 |work=Dragon Gate |language=ja}} He returned to the promotion in July 2008, where he was announced as Tozawa-juku's "foreign exchange student."{{cite web |title= |script-title=ja:東京・後楽園ホール |url=http://www.gaora.co.jp/dragongate/data/result/2008/0710.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081216090212/http://www.gaora.co.jp/dragongate/data/result/2008/0710.html |archive-date=December 16, 2008 |access-date=July 27, 2012 |work=Dragon Gate |language=ja}} El Generico made his third tour of Dragon Gate in October 2009, when he wrestled as a member of the Kamikaze stable.{{cite web |title= |script-title=ja:兵庫・神戸サンボーホール |url=http://www.gaora.co.jp/dragongate/data/result/2009/1010.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130721194957/http://www.gaora.co.jp/dragongate/data/result/2009/1010.html |archive-date=July 21, 2013 |access-date=July 27, 2012 |work=Dragon Gate |language=ja}}

In early 2011, El Generico began making semi-regular appearances for the Japanese DDT Pro-Wrestling sister-promotion Union Pro Wrestling, making his debut on January 3 with a win over Shinichiro Tominaga.{{cite web|url=http://www.ddtpro.com/result/union/article/1294070354/|script-title=ja:１富士、２鷹、３ユニオン全席2000円興行!!|access-date=July 27, 2012|work=Union Pro Wrestling|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110706093740/http://www.ddtpro.com/result/union/article/1294070354/|archive-date=July 6, 2011}} On September 19, El Generico won his first title in Japan, when he defeated Isami Kodaka for the DDT Extreme Championship.{{cite web |title=DDT ProWrestling |script-title=ja:ユニオンイリュージョン～夢～ |url=http://www.ddtpro.com/result/union/article/1316445678/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120605184333/http://www.ddtpro.com/result/union/article/1316445678/ |archive-date=June 5, 2012 |access-date=July 27, 2012 |work=Union Pro Wrestling |language=ja}} After successful title defenses against Shuji Ishikawa and Sanshiro Takagi,{{cite web|url=http://www.ddtpro.com/result/union/article/1316446438/|script-title=ja:ユニオンイリュージョン～幻～|access-date=July 27, 2012|work=Union Pro Wrestling|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120605184421/http://www.ddtpro.com/result/union/article/1316446438/|archive-date=June 5, 2012}}{{cite web|url=http://www.ddtpro.com/result/union/article/1321991746/|script-title=ja:ユニオン６周年記念大会|access-date=July 27, 2012|work=Union Pro Wrestling|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120530062934/http://www.ddtpro.com/result/union/article/1321991746/|archive-date=May 30, 2012}} he lost the title back to Kodaka on January 3, 2012.{{cite web|url=http://www.ddtpro.com/result/union/article/1325607201/|script-title=ja:１富士、２鷹、３ユニオン 2012|access-date=July 27, 2012|work=Union Pro Wrestling|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120530063746/http://www.ddtpro.com/result/union/article/1325607201/|archive-date=May 30, 2012}}

El Generico has also made appearances for Union Pro's parent promotion, DDT Pro-Wrestling, most notably defeating Kota Ibushi in Ibushi's return match from a shoulder injury on May 4, 2012.{{cite web|url=http://www.ddtpro.com/result/ddt/article/1336115829/|title=Max Bump 2012|access-date=July 27, 2012|work=DDT Pro-Wrestling|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120707183531/http://www.ddtpro.com/result/ddt/article/1336115829/|archive-date=July 7, 2012}} On August 18, El Generico wrestled his first match in the Nippon Budokan, defeating the debuting Konosuke Takeshita.{{cite web|url=http://www.ddtpro.com/result/ddt/article/1345297179/|title=武道館ピーターパン～DDTの15周年、ドーンと見せます超豪華4時間SP～|work=DDT Pro-Wrestling|access-date=August 18, 2012|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131003154058/http://www.ddtpro.com/result/ddt/article/1345297179/|archive-date=October 3, 2013}} On September 30, El Generico defeated Ibushi to win the KO-D Openweight Championship, DDT's top title.{{cite web|url=http://www.ddtpro.com/result/ddt/article/1348993317/|title=Who's gonna Top? 2012 ～DDT48総選挙最終投票日～|work=DDT Pro-Wrestling|access-date=September 30, 2012|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121009051739/http://www.ddtpro.com/result/ddt/article/1348993317/|archive-date=October 9, 2012}}{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=September 30, 2012 |title=El Generico wins title in Japan |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/quicknews/article_65606.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121002230404/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/quicknews/article_65606.shtml |archive-date=October 2, 2012 |access-date=September 30, 2012 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} El Generico made his first successful title defense on October 21 in a rematch against Ibushi.{{cite web|url=http://www.ddtpro.com/result/ddt/article/1350799510/|title=DDT Special 2012|work=DDT Pro-Wrestling|access-date=October 21, 2012|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023110118/http://www.ddtpro.com/result/ddt/article/1350799510/|archive-date=October 23, 2012}} On November 25, El Generico defeated KO-D Tag Team Champion Mikami to retain the title.{{cite web|url=http://www.ddtpro.com/result/ddt/article/1353847893/|title=蛇界転生Final ～ポイズン澤田Julie Forever～|work=DDT Pro-Wrestling|access-date=November 25, 2012|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130121074614/http://www.ddtpro.com/result/ddt/article/1353847893/|archive-date=January 21, 2013}} On December 23, El Generico lost the KO-D Openweight Championship to Kenny Omega.{{cite web|url=http://www.ddtpro.com/result/ddt/article/1356252329/|title=Never Mind 2012|work=DDT Pro-Wrestling|access-date=December 23, 2012|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130121083722/http://www.ddtpro.com/result/ddt/article/1356252329/|archive-date=January 21, 2013}}

On March 31, 2012, El Generico made his debut for Dragon Gate USA (DGUSA), when he defeated Chuck Taylor, Cima, Lince Dorado, Rich Swann and Samuray del Sol in a six-way match.{{cite web |last=Radican |first=Sean |date=March 31, 2012 |title=Radican's DGUSA "Mercury Rising 2012" iPPV Report 3/31 – Gargano vs. Yoshino DGUSA Title match, return of traditional Six-Man Tag |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_59802.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131121170658/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_59802.shtml |archive-date=November 21, 2013 |access-date=July 27, 2012 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On April 13, El Generico made his debut for Evolve, a promotion closely affiliated with DGUSA, losing to Low Ki.{{cite web |last=Radican |first=Sean |date=April 13, 2012 |title=Radican's Evolve 11 iPPV report 4/13 – Virtual time coverage of live event from Toronto |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_60354.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131121170703/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_60354.shtml |archive-date=November 21, 2013 |access-date=July 27, 2012 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} After another loss to Ricochet on May 11,{{cite web |last=Radican |first=Sean |date=May 11, 2012 |title=Radican's Evolve 12 iPPV report – live coverage of Charlotte debut |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_61317.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120716043409/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_61317.shtml |archive-date=July 16, 2012 |access-date=July 27, 2012 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} El Generico achieved his first victory in the promotion on May 12, defeating Sami Callihan.{{cite web |last=Radican |first=Sean |date=May 12, 2012 |title=Radican's Evolve 13 iPPV report- Live coverage of event from Concord, N.C. |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_61345.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120716042913/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_61345.shtml |archive-date=July 16, 2012 |access-date=July 27, 2012 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} El Generico defeated Samuray del Sol at Evolve 14 on June 28 and lost a rematch the following day at Evolve 15.{{cite web |last=Namako |first=Jason |date=June 29, 2012 |title=6/28 Evolve 14 iPPV Results: Ybor City, Florida |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1340983864 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120710175134/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1340983864 |archive-date=July 10, 2012 |access-date=July 28, 2012 |work=WrestleView}}{{cite web |last=Radican |first=Sean |date=June 29, 2012 |title=Radican's Evolve 15 iPPV review 6/29 – live coverage of event from St. Petersburg |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_62752.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120712163008/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_62752.shtml |archive-date=July 12, 2012 |access-date=July 28, 2012 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} El Generico returned to Dragon Gate USA on July 28, when he and Samuray were defeated in a tag team match by A. R. Fox and Cima.{{cite web |last=Radican |first=Sean |date=July 28, 2012 |title=Radican's DGUSA "Untouchable 2012" IPPV report 7/28: Live report on Gargano vs. Tozawa Open the Freedom Gate Title match |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_63788.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140111161955/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_63788.shtml |archive-date=January 11, 2014 |access-date=July 28, 2012 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On September 8, El Generico and Samuray del Sol faced off in another Evolve main event, which Generico won.{{cite web |last=Radican |first=Sean |date=September 8, 2012 |title=Radican's Evolve 17 iPPV report – Virtual time coverage from Voorhees, N.J. |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_64987.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006132534/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_64987.shtml |archive-date=October 6, 2014 |access-date=September 8, 2012 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On November 4, at Dragon Gate USA's Freedom Fight 2012, Generico and Samuray defeated Genki Horiguchi and Ryo Saito.{{cite web |last=Radican |first=Sean |date=November 4, 2012 |title=Radican's DGUSA "Freedom Fight 2012" iPPV report: Virtual-time coverage of Gargano's near-five-star title defense |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_66403.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140111162403/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_66403.shtml |archive-date=January 11, 2014 |access-date=November 5, 2012 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} The two continued their winning ways on December 8, at Evolve 18, where they defeated the Super Smash Bros. (Player Uno and Stupefied).{{cite web |last=Radican |first=Sean |date=December 8, 2012 |title=Radican's Evolve 18 iPPV Results: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of DGUSA Title match, J-Mo announcement, more! |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_67095.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130308123356/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_67095.shtml |archive-date=March 8, 2013 |access-date=December 8, 2012 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}

From 2005 onwards, El Generico has made several appearances for the German Westside Xtreme Wrestling (wXw) promotion.{{cite web|url=http://www.wxw-wrestling.com/index2.php?content=event_history&id=9|title=wXw "Back to the Roots IV"|access-date=July 27, 2012|work=Westside Xtreme Wrestling|language=de|archive-date=February 9, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130209151528/http://www.wxw-wrestling.com/index2.php?content=event_history&id=9|url-status=dead}} On March 4, 2012, El Generico defeated Tommy End to win wXw's 2012 16 Carat Gold Tournament. On May 19, El Generico defeated Big van Walter to win the wXw Unified World Wrestling Championship,{{cite web|url=http://www.wxw-wrestling.com/index2.php?content=event_history&id=267|title=wXw Dead End XII|access-date=July 27, 2012|work=Westside Xtreme Wrestling|language=de|archive-date=February 10, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130210000942/http://www.wxw-wrestling.com/index2.php?content=event_history&id=267|url-status=dead}} which he held until August 12, when he lost to Axel Tischer in a four-way match also involving Bad Bones and Karsten Beck.{{cite web|url=http://www.wxw-wrestling.com/index2.php?content=event_history&id=291|title=wXw "Fans Appreciation Weekend 2012 – Night 2"|access-date=August 19, 2012|work=Westside Xtreme Wrestling|language=de|archive-date=February 9, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130209154629/http://www.wxw-wrestling.com/index2.php?content=event_history&id=291|url-status=dead}} In October 2009, El Generico traveled to Poland to take part in Do or Die Wrestling's event in Warsaw, defeating Michael Kovac in the main event.{{cite web |title=Karuzela Show |url=http://www.ddwwrestling.pl/english/skaruzela.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131101191822/http://www.ddwwrestling.pl/english/skaruzela.html |archive-date=November 1, 2013 |access-date=February 17, 2010 |work= |publisher=Do or Die Wrestling}} In May 2010, Generico competed in the main-event of Capital City Championship Combat's show, Stand Alone. On October 23, Generico competed at Pro Wrestling Superstars' inaugural show in Jacksonville, North Carolina, where he teamed with Paul London to defeat Joey Silvia and Jake Manning.{{cite web |last=Charlotte |date=October 25, 2010 |title=Results from Jacksonville 10/23/10 Event |url=http://www.prowrestlingsuperstars.com/results-from-jacksonville-102310-event/ |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105094834/http://www.prowrestlingsuperstars.com/results-from-jacksonville-102310-event/ |archive-date=November 5, 2013 |access-date=March 2, 2018 |publisher=Pro Wrestling Superstars}}

On January 11, 2011, El Generico wrestled in a tryout dark match for Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) at the promotion's Impact! tapings, losing to Amazing Red.{{cite web |last=Martin |first=Adam |date=January 11, 2011 |title=ROH stars gets tryout at TNA Impact TV tapings |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1294806825 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110121135049/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1294806825 |archive-date=January 21, 2011 |access-date=January 12, 2011 |work=WrestleView}} On April 20, El Generico made his South American debut, when he wrestled for Peruvian promotion Leader Wrestling Association (LWA), facing Apocalipsis, Axl and Kaiser in a number one contender's match to determine a challenger for Caoz, the promotion's "Campeón Máximo", which was won by Kaiser.{{cite web |author= |date=April 26, 2011 |title=Resultados del evento LWA Punto de Quiebre 2011 con la presencia de El Genérico |trans-title=Results of LWA Breaking Point 2011 with the presence of El Genérico |url=http://superluchas.com/resultados-del-evento-lwa-punto-de-quiebre-2011-con-la-presencia-de-el-generico/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171028202134/http://superluchas.com/resultados-del-evento-lwa-punto-de-quiebre-2011-con-la-presencia-de-el-generico/ |archive-date=October 28, 2017 |access-date=April 27, 2011 |work=Súper Luchas |language=es}} On April 24, El Generico wrestled for Chilean promotion Xplosion Nacional de Lucha (XNL), losing to Crazy Sid in an XNL Championship number one contender's three-way match, which also included XL.{{cite web |date=April 26, 2011 |title=El Generico vs XL vs Crazy Sid |url=http://xnl.cl/2011/04/crazy-sid-retador-n%C2%B01-al-campeonato-mundial-xnl/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120316160654/http://xnl.cl/2011/04/crazy-sid-retador-n%C2%B01-al-campeonato-mundial-xnl/ |archive-date=March 16, 2012 |access-date=April 28, 2011 |work=Xplosion Nacional de Lucha |language=es}} On February 26, 2012, El Generico defeated Ivan "Locomotive" Markov at a show for the Russian promotion Independent Wrestling Federation (IWF).{{cite web |title=Results |url=http://wrestlingfederation.ru/result/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121016122311/http://wrestlingfederation.ru/result/ |archive-date=October 16, 2012 |access-date=September 17, 2012 |work= |publisher=Independent Wrestling Federation |language=ru}} On September 8, Generico made an appearance for Combat Zone Wrestling (CZW), unsuccessfully challenging Masada for the CZW World Heavyweight Championship.{{cite web |last=Namako |first=Jason |date=September 9, 2012 |title=9/8 CZW iPPV Results: Voorhees, NJ |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1347200684 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121004092038/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1347200684 |archive-date=October 4, 2012 |access-date=September 9, 2012 |work=WrestleView}}

After signing with WWE, El Generico made his final Canadian independent appearance on January 18, 2013, for the Hart Legacy Wrestling (HLW) promotion in Calgary. In the opening four-way elimination match, El Generico and Samuray del Sol were victorious over Cam!kaze and Pete Wilson, Brian Cage and Trent Barreta, and Andrew Hawkes and Ryan Rollins. As a result, the two earned a spot in the main event ten-man tag team match, where they teamed with Barreta, Davey Boy Smith Jr. and Jack Evans in a losing effort against the team of Teddy Hart, Cage, Cam!kaze, Flip Kendrick and Wilson, with Hart pinning Generico.{{cite web |last=O'Connor |first=Robert |date=January 19, 2013 |title=1/18 Hart Legacy Results |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=74808 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104182915/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=74808 |archive-date=November 4, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Insider}}{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2013/01/19/20509161.html|title=Action speaks loudly at Hart Legacy Wrestling|last=Clevett|first=Jason|date=January 19, 2013|work=Slam! Sports|access-date=January 20, 2013|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|archive-date=February 19, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130219184808/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2013/01/19/20509161.html|url-status=usurped}}

File:Sami Zayn at WM31 Axxess.jpg

In January 2013, Sebei signed with WWE{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=January 9, 2013 |title=WWE News: Independent star reportedly signs with WWE |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_67744.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131005022939/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_67744.shtml |archive-date=October 5, 2013 |access-date=January 9, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}{{cite web |last=Johnson |first=Mike |date=January 9, 2013 |title=WWE signs top independent name and more on the way |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=74543 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104183004/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=74543 |archive-date=November 4, 2013 |access-date=January 10, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Insider}}{{cite web |last=Johnson |first=Mike |date=January 10, 2013 |title=El Generico-WWE signing update |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=74559 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104183241/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=74559 |archive-date=November 4, 2013 |access-date=January 11, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Insider}} after passing all medical tests.{{cite web |last=Johnson |first=Mike |date=January 30, 2013 |title=The El Generico news you have been waiting for |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=75080 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029200733/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=75080 |archive-date=October 29, 2013 |access-date=January 30, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Insider}} On February 13, Sebei made his debut for WWE's developmental territory NXT, but did not wrestle.{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=February 14, 2013 |title=WWE News: El Generico makes WWE debut at NXT show (w/Pics) |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_68645.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130217030202/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_68645.shtml |archive-date=February 17, 2013 |access-date=February 14, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} Sebei's NXT in-ring debut took place at a live event on March 7 in Tampa, Florida, wrestling a tag team match unmasked under his real name.{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=March 7, 2013 |title=WWE Pic: El Generico in-ring debut, but not as Generico |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_69196.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250417080938/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_69196.shtml |archive-date=April 17, 2025 |access-date=March 8, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} He eventually settled on the ring name Sami Zayn.{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=April 4, 2013 |title=WWE News: El Generico speaks under new WWE handle |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_69718.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131019042746/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_69718.shtml |archive-date=October 19, 2013 |access-date=April 4, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}

Zayn made his televised debut on the May 22 episode of NXT, first defeating Curt Hawkins in the opening match and then challenging and scoring an upset win over Antonio Cesaro later in the show.{{cite web |last=Trionfo |first=Richard |date=May 22, 2013 |title=WWE NXT report: Sami Zayn's debut is not generic; a feud that most will want to see; Mason Ryan returns; Wyatt versus Graves; big announcement and battle royal next week |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=77735 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131024013048/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=77735 |archive-date=October 24, 2013 |access-date=May 23, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Insider}} The following week, he took part in an 18-man battle royal to determine the number one contender to the NXT Championship, but was eliminated by Mason Ryan.{{cite web |last=Trionfo |first=Richard |date=May 29, 2013 |title=WWE NXT report: number one contender battle royal; big announcement from Stephanie McMahon; and more |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=77899 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140814024021/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=77899 |archive-date=August 14, 2014 |access-date=June 1, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Insider}} On the June 12 episode of NXT, Zayn suffered his first pinfall loss in NXT in a rematch with Cesaro.{{cite web |last=Trionfo |first=Richard |date=June 12, 2013 |title=WWE NXT report: Cesaro/Zayn again; William Regal gives advice against the Wyatt family; Women's tournament continues; NXT title match |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=78225 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140814040157/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=78225 |archive-date=August 14, 2014 |access-date=August 23, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Insider}} On the July 31 episode of NXT, Zayn teamed with NXT Champion Bo Dallas against Cesaro and Leo Kruger; after Cesaro and Zayn brawled to the back, Dallas lost the match and blamed Zayn for the loss.{{cite web |last=Trionfo |first=Richard |date=July 31, 2013 |title=WWE NXT Report: Sylvester says Bonjour; the Wyatt Family says Adios; Charlotte says Wooooo; and Leo Kruger says tata |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=79321 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131024013302/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=79321 |archive-date=October 24, 2013 |access-date=August 23, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Insider}}{{cite web |last=James |first=Justin |date=August 9, 2013 |title=James's WWE NXT results 7/31 & 8/7 – Ambrose defends U.S. Title, Dallas defends NXT Title, dance-off, Zayn, Cesaro, Wyatts say good-bye to NXT, more |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_72560.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131019042440/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_72560.shtml |archive-date=October 19, 2013 |access-date=August 23, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On the August 21 episode of NXT, Zayn lost to Cesaro in a two-out-of-three falls match to conclude the feud.{{cite web |last=Trionfo |first=Richard |date=August 22, 2013 |title=WWE NXT report: Zayn versus Cesaro two out of three falls; Divas title match; Dolph Ziggler in Action; a Tough Enough alumnus in action; The Ascension; CJ Parker and Tyler Breeze; and more |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=79778 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141013102448/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=79778 |archive-date=October 13, 2014 |access-date=August 23, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Insider}} On September 6, Zayn made his WWE debut at a house show in his hometown of Montreal, defeating Cesaro.{{cite web |last=Laprade |first=Patric |date=September 7, 2013 |title=WWE Montreal show a celebration of Sami Zayn |url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2013/09/07/pf-21105021.html |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130909101845/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2013/09/07/pf-21105021.html |archive-date=September 9, 2013 |access-date=September 9, 2013 |work=Slam! Sports |publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}

When Zayn targeted Dallas' NXT Championship, Dallas cost Zayn his match against Cesaro's fellow Real American Jack Swagger.{{cite web |last=James |first=Justin |date=September 5, 2013 |title=James's WWE NXT results 8/21 & 8/28 & 9/4: Cesaro vs. Sami Zayn MOTY contender, A.J. Lee title defense, Summer Rae, Swagger, new feuds & developments |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_73169.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140615042449/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_73169.shtml |archive-date=June 15, 2014 |access-date=September 9, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} Dallas held an open challenge to determine the next title contender, but banned Zayn from competing.{{cite web |last=James |first=Justin |date=September 27, 2013 |title=James's WWE NXT report 9/25 – Week 65: Triple H makes "big announcement," Ohno/Hero returns, Zayn/Generico in action, Overall Reax |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_73578.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131004230354/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_73578.shtml |archive-date=October 4, 2013 |access-date=October 3, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} However, Zayn masqueraded as the masked El Local, defeating Dallas to earn his title shot on the October 16 episode of NXT.{{cite web |last=Trionfo |first=Richard |date=October 2, 2013 |title=WWE NXT report: tag title match; the Bo Dallas challenge; and dancing |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=80669 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104184802/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=80669 |archive-date=November 4, 2013 |access-date=October 3, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Insider}} NXT General Manager John Bradshaw Layfield restarted the match when Zayn won despite Dallas' foot being on the ropes, after which he sent Zayn into an exposed turnbuckle to retain the title.{{cite web |last=Trionfo |first=Richard |date=October 17, 2013 |title=WWE NXT report: Zayn versus Dallas; tag title rematch; divas tag action; Breeze versus Parker |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=80948 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104184920/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=80948 |archive-date=November 4, 2013 |access-date=October 18, 2013 |work=Pro Wrestling Insider}} In November 2013, after tying a Beat the Clock challenge with Adrian Neville by defeating Kruger,{{cite web |last=James |first=Justin |date=November 21, 2013 |title=James's WWE NXT report 11/20 – Week 73: Bo Dallas returns, Beat the Clock Challenge ensues, Ohno/Hero wrestles prior to his release, Overall Reax |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_74674.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140325053941/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_74674.shtml |archive-date=March 25, 2014 |access-date=January 3, 2014 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} Zayn lost a number one contender's match to Neville on the November 27 episode of NXT.{{cite web |last=James |first=Justin |date=November 29, 2013 |title=James's WWE NXT results 11/27 – Week 74: Yoshi Tatsu resurfaces, Hero wrestles pre-release, Zayn/Generico vs. Neville/PAC flashback, Overall Reax |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_74824.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203065801/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_74824.shtml |archive-date=December 3, 2013 |access-date=January 3, 2014 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On the January 1, 2014 episode of NXT, Zayn defeated Kruger in a two-out-of-three falls match.{{cite web |last=James |first=Justin |date=January 2, 2014 |title=James's WWE NXT results 1/1 – Week 79: Zayn/Generico in 2/3 Falls match, Kingston, Natalya, Overall Reax |url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_75421.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140103160436/http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_75421.shtml |archive-date=January 3, 2014 |access-date=January 3, 2014 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} After this, Zayn's obsession with his loss to Cesaro the previous year led to him challenging Cesaro to a rematch at NXT Arrival on February 27,{{cite web |last=Namako |first=Jason |date=January 27, 2014 |title=WWE NXT results – 1/22/14 (Banner raising ceremony) |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/46403-wwe-nxt-results-1-22-14-banner-raising-ceremony |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140815235740/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/46403-wwe-nxt-results-1-22-14-banner-raising-ceremony |archive-date=August 15, 2014 |access-date=March 8, 2014 |website=WrestleView}} which he lost, but Cesaro showed respect to Zayn after the match.{{cite web |last=James |first=Justin |date=February 27, 2014 |title=James's WWE NXT "Arrival" report 2/27 – Week 87: Complete real-time coverage of WWE Network special, including all NXT Titles on the line, plus Overall Reax |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_76685.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140707155449/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_76685.shtml |archive-date=July 7, 2014 |access-date=February 28, 2014 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} On the May 8 episode of NXT, Zayn participated in a 20-man battle royal for an NXT Championship shot, with Zayn being involved in a triple threat match tie.{{cite web |last=James |first=Justin |date=May 8, 2014 |title=James's WWE NXT report 5/8 – Week 97: Battle Royal for NXT Title shot, Women's Title tournament continues, Triple H appearance, Exotic Express; Overall Reax |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_78282.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140629144417/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_78282.shtml |archive-date=June 29, 2014 |access-date=May 20, 2014 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} As a result, Zayn faced the other two winners, Tyler Breeze and Tyson Kidd in a triple threat match on the next episode of NXT, where Kidd won to become number one contender.{{cite web |last=James |first=Justin |date=May 16, 2014 |title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 5/15 – Week 98: NXT Title #1 contender match, Women's Title tourney continues; Overall Reax |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_78422.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140629164126/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_78422.shtml |archive-date=June 29, 2014 |access-date=May 20, 2014 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} At NXT TakeOver on May 29, Zayn lost to Breeze in another number one contender's match.{{cite web |last=James |first=Justin |date=May 29, 2014 |title=James's WWE NXT TakeOver report 5/29: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live special on WWE Network |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_78704.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140629135253/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_78704.shtml |archive-date=June 29, 2014 |access-date=June 2, 2014 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}

In June, Zayn began feuding with Kidd, who abandoned him during a match against NXT Tag Team Champions The Ascension.{{cite web |last1=Howell |first1=Nolan |year=2014 |title=NXT: Ascension rises as Kidd abandons Zayn |url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2014/06/20/21754551.html |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://archive.today/20141018083044/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2014/06/20/21754551.html |archive-date=October 18, 2014 |access-date=October 18, 2014 |website=Slam! Sports |publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} After Zayn defeated Justin Gabriel,{{cite web |last1=Chiverton |first1=George |date=July 10, 2014 |title=Chiverton's NXT Scouting Report: Latest Rankings & Evaluations of WWE's top prospects, plus a look at other prospects not yet in WWE |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/The_Specialists_34/article_79500.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140717144648/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/The_Specialists_34/article_79500.shtml |archive-date=July 17, 2014 |access-date=October 18, 2014 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} both Kidd and Gabriel attacked Zayn, who was saved by his friend, NXT Champion Adrian Neville.{{cite web |last1=Howell |first1=Nolan |year=2014 |title=NXT: Zayn teams with Neville against Kidd and Gabriel |url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2014/07/10/21799666.html |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140715135419/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2014/07/10/21799666.html |archive-date=July 15, 2014 |access-date=October 18, 2014 |website=Slam! Sports |publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} Zayn defeated Kidd on the July 17 episode of NXT{{cite web |last1=James |first1=Justin |date=July 17, 2014 |title=James's WWE NXT report 7/17 – Week 107: Kidd vs. Zayn main event, Adam Rose, Vaudevillains, more; Overall Reax |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_79650.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140727182901/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_79650.shtml |archive-date=July 27, 2014 |access-date=October 18, 2014 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} and in a first round tournament tag team match for an opportunity at the NXT Tag Team Championship with Adam Rose against Gabriel and Kidd.{{cite web |last1=Namako |first1=Jason |date=August 14, 2014 |title=WWE NXT Results – 8/7/14 (Kidd/Gabriel vs. Zayn/Rose) |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/50169 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141022081920/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/50169 |archive-date=October 22, 2014 |access-date=October 18, 2014 |website=WrestleView}} Zayn and Rose lost in the second round to the Lucha Dragons (Kalisto and Sin Cara).{{cite web |last1=Witner |first1=Emerson |date=August 21, 2014 |title=WWE NXT TV Report: Kalisto/Sin Cara vs. Sami Zayn/Adam Rose, new GM coming |url=http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/96-wwe/38584 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141107101954/http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/96-wwe/38584 |archive-date=November 7, 2014 |access-date=October 18, 2014 |work=Wrestling Observer Newsletter}} When Zayn, Kidd and Breeze each staked a claim for an NXT Championship match, Neville agreed to face all three in a fatal-four-way match at NXT TakeOver: Fatal 4-Way.{{cite web |last1=Namako |first1=Jason |date=August 29, 2014 |title=WWE NXT Results – 8/28/14 (New NXT GM revealed) |url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/50469-wwe-nxt-results-8-28-14-new-nxt-gm-revealed/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140831010417/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/50469-wwe-nxt-results-8-28-14-new-nxt-gm-revealed/ |archive-date=August 31, 2014 |access-date=October 18, 2014 |website=WrestleView}} Zayn and Neville made their main roster debut on the September 8 episode of Raw, defeating Breeze and Kidd.{{cite web |last=McCarron |first=Rob |date=September 8, 2014 |title=WWE Raw TV Report: Cena vs. Heyman verbal debate, Jericho vs. Wyatt cage match |url=http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/96-wwe/38842-wwe-raw-tv-report- |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140912010548/http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/96-wwe/38842-wwe-raw-tv-report- |archive-date=September 12, 2014 |access-date=October 18, 2014 |website=Wrestling Observer Newsletter}} At NXT TakeOver: Fatal 4-Way on September 11, Zayn failed to win the title after Neville, who retained the title, stopped him by dragging the referee out of the ring.{{cite web |last1=Caldwell |first1=James |date=December 11, 2014 |title=Caldwell's WWE NXT Takeover results 12/11: Complete virtual-time coverage of Neville vs. Zayn for the NXT Title, Itami & Balor, Charlotte, Kevin Steen/Owens's debut, Corey Graves retires |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_82237.shtml |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141213013556/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_82237.shtml |archive-date=December 13, 2014 |access-date=October 18, 2014 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} This caused tension within Neville and Zayn's friendship.{{cite web |last1=Chiverton |first1=George |date=September 24, 2014 |title=Chiverton's NXT Scouting report: Latest Network Era Rankings, evaluation of "Takeover" fall-out |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/The_Specialists_34/article_80919.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141015035740/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/The_Specialists_34/article_80919.shtml |archive-date=October 15, 2014 |access-date=October 18, 2014 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}{{cite web |last1=Namako |first1=Jason |date=October 12, 2014 |title=WWE NXT Results – 10/9/14 (O’Neil vs. Zayn) |url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/51156-wwe-nxt-results-10-9-14-o-neil-vs-zayn/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018234431/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/51156-wwe-nxt-results-10-9-14-o-neil-vs-zayn/ |archive-date=October 18, 2014 |access-date=October 18, 2014 |website=WrestleView}} After Zayn lost another match, this time to Titus O'Neil, he vowed to start a "road to redemption" leading to the NXT Championship and went on a winning streak.{{cite web |last1=James |first1=Justin |date=October 16, 2014 |title=James's WWE NXT report 10/16 – Week 122: Sami Zayn vs. Tyson Kidd main event, Women's champ Charlotte; Overall Reax |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_81313.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141228013107/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_81313.shtml |archive-date=December 28, 2014 |access-date=October 18, 2014 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}{{cite web |last1=Howell |first1=Nolan |year=2014 |title=NXT: Zayn topples Titus in rematch |url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2014/10/30/22041651.html |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://archive.today/20141103171019/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2014/10/30/22041651.html |archive-date=November 3, 2014 |access-date=November 18, 2014 |website=Slam! Sports |publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}{{cite web |last1=Witner |first1=Emerson |date=November 9, 2014 |title=WWE NXT TV Report: Finn Balor (Prince Devitt) debuts, Hideo Itami, Sami Zayn, more! |url=http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/96-wwe-news/39821 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141220063710/https://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/96-wwe-news/39821 |archive-date=December 20, 2014 |access-date=November 18, 2014 |work=Wrestling Observer Newsletter}} Zayn was rewarded with a title match against Neville on the November 13 episode of NXT in which Neville appeared to injure himself during the match, but he took advantage on Zayn checking on him to win the match and retain the title.{{cite web |last1=James |first1=Justin |date=November 13, 2014 |title=James's WWE NXT results 11/13: Zayn challenges Neville for the NXT Title – with a twist ending, Itami & Balor tag match, more |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_81787.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129044916/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_81787.shtml |archive-date=November 29, 2014 |access-date=November 18, 2014 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} Neville agreed to Zayn's request for a title rematch, with Zayn vowing to quit NXT if he lost.{{cite web |last1=James |first1=Justin |date=November 21, 2014 |title=James' WWE NXT report 11/20 – Week 127: Kevin Steen's debut teased, Zayn vows to quit if he doesn't win NXT Title, Overall Reax |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_81897.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141123233512/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_81897.shtml |archive-date=November 23, 2014 |access-date=December 7, 2014 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}

At NXT TakeOver: R Evolution on December 11, Zayn defeated Neville to win the NXT Championship, and was congratulated by many other NXT wrestlers afterwards, including Neville and Kevin Owens (the former Kevin Steen). The show ended with Owens powerbombing Zayn onto the ring apron to ruin their reunion.{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=December 11, 2014 |title=WWE NXT Takeover results 12/11: Complete virtual-time coverage of Neville vs. Zayn for the NXT Title, Itami & Balor, Charlotte, Kevin Steen/Owens's debut, Corey Graves retires |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_82237.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141228181835/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_82237.shtml |archive-date=December 28, 2014 |access-date=December 12, 2014 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} Zayn retained the title against Neville in a rematch on the January 14, 2015, episode of NXT, but suffered another post-match attack by Owens.{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=January 14, 2015 |title=WWE NXT report 1/14 – Week 135: New timeslot kicks off with Zayn vs. Neville NXT Title re-match, plus Charlotte & Natalya, Balor vs. Kidd, Corbin vs. Dempsey; Overall Reax |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_82765.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150202105259/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_82765.shtml |archive-date=February 2, 2015 |access-date=January 15, 2015 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} After an irate Zayn demanded a match against Owens, even if it meant putting the title on the line, a title match was set for NXT TakeOver: Rival on February 11,{{cite web |last1=Howell |first1=Nolan |date=January 22, 2015 |title=NXT: NXT Championship contender tourney kicks off |url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2015/01/22/22195341.html |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150130082023/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2015/01/22/22195341.html |archive-date=January 30, 2015 |access-date=February 7, 2015 |website=Slam! Sports |publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}{{cite web |last1=Howell |first1=Nolan |date=January 29, 2015 |title=NXT: Tournament and contract signing heat up |url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2015/01/29/22207896.html |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150209123834/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2015/01/29/22207896.html |archive-date=February 9, 2015 |access-date=February 7, 2015 |website=Slam! Sports |publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} where Owens captured the title from Zayn via referee stoppage, having powerbombed a disorientated Zayn five times, ending his reign at 62 days.{{cite web |last=James |first=Justin |date=February 11, 2015 |title=WWE NXT Takeover report 2/11: Zayn vs. Owens NXT Title match, Women's Title semi-main event, Neville-Balor; Reax |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_83281.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150212082957/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_83281.shtml |archive-date=February 12, 2015 |access-date=February 13, 2015 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}

File:Sami Zayn NXT TakeOver Dallas 2016.jpg in April 2016|279x279px]]

On the May 4 episode of Raw, Zayn was introduced by Bret Hart as John Cena's opponent for his weekly "U.S. Open Challenge" for his United States Championship, taking place in his hometown of Montreal. Zayn was heavily favored by the crowd over Cena, but lost the match. After the match, Cena let Zayn have the ring to an outstanding ovation from the live crowd.{{cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=May 4, 2015 |title=U.S. Champion John Cena def. Sami Zayn |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2015-05-04/wwe-raw-results-27353823/page-7 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150724151611/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2015-05-04/wwe-raw-results-27353823/page-7 |archive-date=July 24, 2015 |access-date=May 5, 2015 |publisher=WWE |page=7}} However, Zayn had injured his shoulder before the match and underwent an MRI for further analysis.{{cite web |date=May 5, 2015 |title=Sami Zayn to undergo MRI on his shoulder |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2015-05-04/sami-zayn-injury-update-27354413 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150724154940/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2015-05-04/sami-zayn-injury-update-27354413 |archive-date=July 24, 2015 |access-date=May 5, 2015 |publisher=WWE}} At NXT TakeOver: Unstoppable on May 20, Zayn's NXT Championship rematch against Owens ended in a no contest when Zayn was unable to continue the match. Owens continued assaulting Zayn until the debuting Samoa Joe made the save. This was used to write Zayn off television as he was set to undergo shoulder surgery.{{cite web |author=Trionfo |first=Richard |date=May 20, 2015 |title=WWE NXT TakeOver Unstoppable report: Banks vs. Lynch, Owens vs. Zayn, a new debut, who is the number one contender, and more |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=93868&p=2 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150521215242/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=93868&p=2 |archive-date=May 21, 2015 |access-date=June 18, 2014 |website=Pro Wrestling Insider}} After a seven-month hiatus due to injury, Zayn returned on the December 23 episode of NXT (taped at NXT TakeOver: London on December 16), defeating Tye Dillinger.{{cite web |author=Melok |first=Bobby |date=December 23, 2015 |title=WWE NXT results: Dec. 23, 2015 – Sami Zayn shines in return to ring, Jordan & Gable stand tall after Fatal 4-Way Match |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/2015-12-23/wwe-nxt-results-2015-12-23-28416731 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151226214600/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/2015-12-23/wwe-nxt-results-2015-12-23-28416731 |archive-date=December 26, 2015 |access-date=December 28, 2015 |website= |publisher=WWE}} At NXT TakeOver: Dallas on April 1, Zayn lost to new signee Shinsuke Nakamura in a critically acclaimed match. After both men embraced each other and Nakamura left the ring, Zayn was left waving goodbye to the live audience, signaling his final appearance in NXT.{{cite web |last=Clapp |first=John |date=April 1, 2016 |title=Shinsuke Nakamura def. Sami Zayn |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/nxt-takeover-dallas-2016-04-01/article/sami-zayn-shinsuke-nakamura-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160420120711/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/nxt-takeover-dallas-2016-04-01/article/sami-zayn-shinsuke-nakamura-results |archive-date=April 20, 2016 |access-date=April 1, 2016 |work= |publisher=WWE}}

File:Sami Zayn WrestleMania 32 Axxess.jpg

On January 24, 2016, at Royal Rumble, Zayn entered the titular match at number 20, eliminating Owens before being eliminated by Braun Strowman.{{cite web |author=Murphy |first=Ryan |date=December 21, 2015 |title=Triple H won the 2016 Royal Rumble Match for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2016/royal-rumble-match-wwe-world-heavyweight-championship |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160301180927/https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2016/royal-rumble-match-wwe-world-heavyweight-championship |archive-date=March 1, 2016 |access-date=January 25, 2016 |website= |publisher=WWE}} On the March 7 episode of Raw, Zayn made a surprise return to the main roster, attacking Owens, who was attempting to attack Neville after their match.{{cite web |author=Trionfo |first=Richard |date=March 7, 2016 |title=WWE Raw Report: Any Roadblocks on the Path to Roadblock?, How About Those Y2AJ Shirt Sales?, Who Will Be the X Factor in the Lana/Brie Situation?, and More |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=100372&p=2 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161005201744/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=100372&p=2 |archive-date=October 5, 2016 |access-date=March 7, 2016 |website=Pro Wrestling Insider}} This led to a tag team match on SmackDown, where Zayn and Neville defeated Owens and The Miz.{{cite web |last=Trionfo |first=Richard |date=March 11, 2016 |title=Smackdown Report: Any Roadblocks for Dean Ambrose's Road to Roadblock, Chris Jericho Is on Fire, Owens vs. Zayn for Mania? |url=http://pwinsider.com/article/100440/smackdown-report-any-roadblocks-for-dean-ambroses-road-to-roadblock-chris-jericho-is-on-fire-owens-vs-zayn-for-mania.html?p=1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160313141537/http://pwinsider.com/article/100440/smackdown-report-any-roadblocks-for-dean-ambroses-road-to-roadblock-chris-jericho-is-on-fire-owens-vs-zayn-for-mania.html?p=1 |archive-date=March 13, 2016 |access-date=March 11, 2016 |work=Pro Wrestling Insider}} At WrestleMania 32 on April 3, Zayn competed against Owens, Dolph Ziggler, The Miz, Stardust, Sin Cara and Zack Ryder in a ladder match for the Intercontinental Championship, which was won by Ryder.{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=March 22, 2016 |title=3/21 WWE Raw Results – Caldwell's Complete Live Report |url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/03/21/march21rawresults/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160324193628/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/03/21/march21rawresults/ |archive-date=March 24, 2016 |access-date=March 23, 2016 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}{{cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=April 3, 2016 |title=Zack Ryder def. Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn, Dolph Ziggler, Stardust, The Miz and Sin Cara to become the new Intercontinental Champion |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/32/intercontinental-championship-ladder-match-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160404014013/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/32/intercontinental-championship-ladder-match-results |archive-date=April 4, 2016 |access-date=March 2, 2018 |publisher=WWE}} The next night on Raw, Zayn was scheduled to compete in a fatal four-way match against Owens, AJ Styles, and Chris Jericho to determine the number one contender for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, but was attacked by Owens, who attacked him with a powerbomb through a table backstage, and replaced by a returning Cesaro.{{cite web |date=April 4, 2016 |title=AJ Styles def. Chris Jericho, Kevin Owens and Cesaro in a WWE World Heavyweight Championship No. 1 Contender's Fatal 4-Way Match |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2016-04-04#full-detail-40003650 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160426220416/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2016-04-04#full-detail-40003650 |archive-date=April 26, 2016 |access-date=April 24, 2016 |website= |publisher=WWE |quote=After Zayn was ruthlessly ambushed backstage by Owens, however, it was revealed that the leader of the Zayniacs would not be medically cleared to compete.}} Shane McMahon gave Zayn another opportunity on the April 11 episode of Raw by having him face Styles, who had won the contender's match the week before, but Zayn lost to Styles.{{cite web |last1=Powell |first1=Jason |date=April 12, 2016 |title=Powell's WWE Raw Hit List: AJ Styles vs. Sami Zayn, Anderson and Gallows, Charlotte vs. Natalya for the WWE Women's Title, Roman Reigns and Bray Wyatt, Dr. Phil |url=http://prowrestling.net/site/2016/04/12/powells-wwe-raw-hit-list-aj-styles-vs-sami-zayn-anderson-and-gallows-charlotte-vs-natalya-for-the-wwe-womens-title-roman-reigns-and-bray-wyatt-dr-phil/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160730140238/http://prowrestling.net/site/2016/04/12/powells-wwe-raw-hit-list-aj-styles-vs-sami-zayn-anderson-and-gallows-charlotte-vs-natalya-for-the-wwe-womens-title-roman-reigns-and-bray-wyatt-dr-phil/ |archive-date=July 30, 2016 |access-date=April 24, 2016 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At Payback on May 1, Zayn lost to Owens.{{Cite web |last=Artus |first=Matthew |date=May 1, 2016 |title=Kevin Owens def. Sami Zayn |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwepayback/2016/sami-zayn-kevin-owens-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160504100640/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwepayback/2016/sami-zayn-kevin-owens-results |archive-date=May 4, 2016 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} At Extreme Rules on May 22, Zayn failed to win the Intercontinental Championship in a fatal four-way match when The Miz pinned Cesaro.{{cite web |last=Artus |first=Matthew |date=May 22, 2016 |title=Intercontinental Champion The Miz won a Fatal 4-Way Match |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/2016/intercontinental-championship-fatal-4-way-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160524070229/http://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/2016/intercontinental-championship-fatal-4-way-results |archive-date=May 24, 2016 |access-date=May 24, 2016 |website= |publisher=WWE}} At Money in the Bank on June 19, Zayn competed in the Money in the Bank ladder match, which was won by Ambrose.{{cite web |last=Powers |first=Kevin |date=June 19, 2016 |title=Dean Ambrose won the Money in the Bank Ladder Match |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2016/money-bank-ladder-match-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160623061306/https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2016/money-bank-ladder-match-results |archive-date=June 23, 2016 |access-date=June 19, 2016 |work= |publisher=WWE}} At Battleground on July 24, Zayn defeated Owens.{{cite web |last=Taylor |first=Scott |date=July 24, 2016 |title=Sami Zayn def. Kevin Owens |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwebattleground/2016/sami-zayn-kevin-owens-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160728021456/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwebattleground/2016/sami-zayn-kevin-owens-results |archive-date=July 28, 2016 |access-date=July 24, 2016 |publisher=WWE}}

File:WWE Live 2016-09-07 22-03-33 ILCE-6300 2492 DxO (30311446103).jpg in September 2016]]

After losing to Jericho on September 25 at Clash of Champions,{{cite web |last=Wortman |first=James |date=September 25, 2016 |title=Chris Jericho def. Sami Zayn |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wweclashofchampions/2016/sami-zayn-vs-chris-jericho-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160927120446/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wweclashofchampions/2016/sami-zayn-vs-chris-jericho-results |archive-date=September 27, 2016 |access-date=March 2, 2018 |website= |publisher=WWE}} Zayn began a feud with Braun Strowman after preventing him from confronting Raw General Manager Mick Foley.{{Cite web |last=Tedesco |first=Mike |date=October 17, 2016 |title=WWE RAW Results – 10/17/16 (Live from Denver, Bill Goldberg returns to WWE answering Heyman’s challenge) |url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-raw-results/68371-wwe-raw-results-101716-live-denver-bill-goldberg-returns-wwe-answering-heymans-challenge/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180725113145/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-raw-results/68371-wwe-raw-results-101716-live-denver-bill-goldberg-returns-wwe-answering-heymans-challenge/ |archive-date=July 25, 2018 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=WrestleView}} On the November 1 episode of SmackDown Live, Intercontinental Champion Dolph Ziggler made an open challenge to any wrestler from the Raw brand.{{Cite web |last=Martin |first=Adam |date=November 1, 2016 |title=WWE Smackdown Results - 11/1/16 (Live from Newark, Daniel Bryan to announce teams for Survivor Series) |url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-smackdown-results/69000-wwe-smackdown-results-11116-live-newark-daniel-bryan-announce-teams-survivor-series-ppv/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161104015018/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/69000-wwe-smackdown-results-11116-live-newark-daniel-bryan-announce-teams-survivor-series-ppv/ |archive-date=November 4, 2016 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=WrestleView}} The following week, Zayn stated that Foley wanted him to face Ziggler, but Commissioner Stephanie McMahon, who preferred Rusev, arranged a match with the winner facing Ziggler for the title, which Zayn won.{{Cite web |last=Tedesco |first=Mike |date=November 7, 2016 |title=WWE RAW Results - 11/7/16 (From Glasgow, Scotland, more names for Team RAW revealed at Survivor Series) |url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-raw-results/69276-wwe-raw-results-11716-glasgow-scotland-names-team-raw-revealed-survivor-series-hype/ |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=WrestleView |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161108134002/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/69276-wwe-raw-results-11716-glasgow-scotland-names-team-raw-revealed-survivor-series-hype/|archive-date=November 8, 2016|url-status=live}} On the November 15 episode of SmackDown Live, The Miz defeated Ziggler for the Intercontinental Championship and Zayn instead faced him at Survivor Series on November 20, but lost.{{Cite web |last=Martin |first=Adam |date=November 15, 2016 |title=WWE Smackdown Results – 11/15/16 (Live from Wilkes-Barre, 900th episode, Undertaker and Edge return) |url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-smackdown-results/69572-wwe-smackdown-results-111516-live-wilkes-barre-900th-episode-undertaker-edge-return/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612163227/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-smackdown-results/69572-wwe-smackdown-results-111516-live-wilkes-barre-900th-episode-undertaker-edge-return/ |archive-date=June 12, 2018 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=WrestleView}}{{Cite web |last=Anthony |first=Benigno |date=November 20, 2016 |title=Intercontinental Champion The Miz def. Sami Zayn |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/2016/miz-sami-zayn-results |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161121103559/https://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/2016/miz-sami-zayn-results |archive-date=November 21, 2016 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} The next night on Raw, Foley ordered Zayn to face Strowman as punishment for failing to bring the title to Raw; Strowman attacked Zayn before the match and attacked him until Foley came out to stop the match.{{Cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |author-link=Wade Keller |date=November 21, 2016 |title=KELLER'S WWE RAW REPORT 11/21: Goldberg addresses crowd after his huge victory over Lesnar at Survivor Series, plus full show report |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/11/21/kellers-wwe-raw-report-1121-goldberg-addresses-crowd-huge-victory-lesnar-survivor-series-plus-full-show-report/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161124123843/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/11/21/kellers-wwe-raw-report-1121-goldberg-addresses-crowd-huge-victory-lesnar-survivor-series-plus-full-show-report/ |archive-date=November 24, 2016 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} Zayn refused to be traded to SmackDown and a match with Strowman was made for Roadblock: End of the Line on December 18 with a time limit of 10 minutes,{{Cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |author-link=Wade Keller |date=December 12, 2016 |title=KELLER'S WWE RAW REPORT 12/12: New Day try to break a record for longest-reigning tag champs in WWE, Roadblock hype continues |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/12/12/kellers-wwe-raw-report-1212-new-day-try-break-record-longest-reigning-tag-champs-wwe-roadblock-hype-continues/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161215225356/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/12/12/kellers-wwe-raw-report-1212-new-day-try-break-record-longest-reigning-tag-champs-wwe-roadblock-hype-continues/ |archive-date=December 15, 2016 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} which Zayn won.{{cite web |last=Pappolla |first=Ryan |date=December 18, 2016 |title=Sami Zayn survived for 10 minutes against Braun Strowman |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/roadblockendoftheline/2016/sami-zayn-vs-braun-strowman-results |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220211751/https://www.wwe.com/shows/roadblockendoftheline/2016/sami-zayn-vs-braun-strowman-results |archive-date=December 20, 2016 |access-date=December 18, 2016 |website= |publisher=WWE}} On the January 2, 2017 episode of Raw, Zayn lost to Strowman in a Last Man Standing match, ending their feud.{{Cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |author-link=Wade Keller |date=January 2, 2017 |title=KELLER'S WWE RAW REPORT 1/2: Goldberg appearance, Sami vs. Braun in Last Man Standing match, Foley's new haircut |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/01/02/kellers-wwe-raw-report-12-goldberg-appearance-sami-vs-braun-last-man-standing-match-foleys-new-haircut/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170103235819/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/01/02/kellers-wwe-raw-report-12-goldberg-appearance-sami-vs-braun-last-man-standing-match-foleys-new-haircut/ |archive-date=January 3, 2017 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}

On the January 23 episode of Raw, Zayn defeated Seth Rollins to win Rollins' opportunity in the Royal Rumble match after Rollins was distracted by Triple H.{{Cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |author-link=Wade Keller |date=January 23, 2017 |title=KELLER'S WWE RAW REPORT 1/23: Final show before the Royal Rumble, Goldberg-Lesnar hype, Reigns confronted by Jericho & Owens |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/01/23/kellers-wwe-raw-report-123-final-show-royal-rumble-goldberg-lesnar-hype-reigns-confronted-jericho-owens/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170129113540/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/01/23/kellers-wwe-raw-report-123-final-show-royal-rumble-goldberg-lesnar-hype-reigns-confronted-jericho-owens/ |archive-date=January 29, 2017 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} At the Royal Rumble on January 29, Zayn entered at number 8 and lasted over 47 minutes before being eliminated by The Undertaker.{{Cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |last2=Taylor |first2=Scott |date=January 29, 2017 |title=Randy Orton won the 30-Superstar Royal Rumble Match |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2017/2017-royal-rumble-match-results |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170201200349/https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2017/2017-royal-rumble-match-results |archive-date=February 1, 2017 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} On the February 13 episode of Raw, Zayn responded to comments made by Samoa Joe during a backstage interview, and was attacked by Joe,{{Cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |author-link=Wade Keller |date=February 13, 2017 |title=KELLER'S WWE RAW REPORT 2/13: Las Vegas Festival of Friendship, Emmalina's debut, Fastlane developments, more |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/02/13/kellers-wwe-raw-report-213-las-vegas-festival-friendship-emmalinas-debut-fastlane-developments/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170214182611/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/02/13/kellers-wwe-raw-report-213-las-vegas-festival-friendship-emmalinas-debut-fastlane-developments/ |archive-date=February 14, 2017 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} who defeated Zayn on March 5 at Fastlane.{{Cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=March 5, 2017 |title=Samoa Joe def. Sami Zayn |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwefastlane/2017/sami-zayn-vs-samoa-joe-results |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170306151758/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwefastlane/2017/sami-zayn-vs-samoa-joe-results |archive-date=March 6, 2017 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} On the March 27 episode of Raw, Zayn defeated Owens in a no disqualification match to save his job.{{Cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |author-link=Wade Keller |date=March 27, 2017 |title=KELLER'S WWE RAW REPORT 3/27: Final Raw before WrestleMania 33 including Goldberg-Lesnar segment, Seth-Hunter contract signing, Bayley-Charlotte |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/03/27/kellers-wwe-raw-report-327-final-raw-wrestlemania-33-including-goldberg-lesnar-segment-seth-hunter-contract-signing-bayley-charlotte/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170328195242/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/03/27/kellers-wwe-raw-report-327-final-raw-wrestlemania-33-including-goldberg-lesnar-segment-seth-hunter-contract-signing-bayley-charlotte/ |archive-date=March 28, 2017 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}

On April 11, Zayn was traded to SmackDown as part of the Superstar Shake-up.{{Cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |author-link=Wade Keller |date=April 11, 2017 |title=KELLER'S WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 4/11: Superstar Shake-up Night 2 details, Shinsuke's second week, JBL heckled |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/04/11/kellers-wwe-smackdown-report-411-superstar-shake-night-2-details/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190616223651/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/04/11/kellers-wwe-smackdown-report-411-superstar-shake-night-2-details/ |archive-date=June 16, 2019 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} The following week on SmackDown Live, Zayn failed to become the number one contender for WWE Championship after losing a six-pack challenge.{{Cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |author-link=Wade Keller |date=April 18, 2017 |title=KELLER'S WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 4/18: Six-Way Contenders Match, Naomi vs. Charlotte, Styles vs. Corbin |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/04/18/wwe-smackdown-report-418-six-way-contenders-match-naomi-vs-charlotte/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170622180255/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/04/18/wwe-smackdown-report-418-six-way-contenders-match-naomi-vs-charlotte/ |archive-date=June 22, 2017 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} After defeating Baron Corbin at Backlash on May 21,{{Cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=May 21, 2017 |title=Sami Zayn def. Baron Corbin |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/2017/sami-zayn-baron-corbin-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170525165635/https://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/2017/sami-zayn-baron-corbin-results |archive-date=May 25, 2017 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} Zayn competed in the Money in the Bank ladder match at Money in the Bank on June 18, which was won by Corbin.{{Cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=June 18, 2017 |title=Baron Corbin won the 2017 Money in the Bank contract |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2017/money-in-the-bank-ladder-match-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170622083647/https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2017/money-in-the-bank-ladder-match-results |archive-date=June 22, 2017 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} He lost to Mike Kanellis in the latter's debut match on the July 18 episode of SmackDown,{{cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |author-link=Wade Keller |date=July 18, 2017 |title=Keller's WWE SmackDown Report 7/18: Jinder Mahal shows off the Punjabi Prison cage, Battleground Hype, Owens & Corbin vs. Nakamura & Styles |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/07/18/kellers-wwe-smackdown-report-718-jinder-mahal-shows-off-punjabi-prison-cage-womens-five-way-title-shot-owens-corbin-vs-nakamura-styles/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170721172026/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/07/18/kellers-wwe-smackdown-report-718-jinder-mahal-shows-off-punjabi-prison-cage-womens-five-way-title-shot-owens-corbin-vs-nakamura-styles/ |archive-date=July 21, 2017 |access-date=July 18, 2017 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} but defeated him in a rematch at Battleground on July 23.{{Cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=July 23, 2017 |title=Sami Zayn def. Mike Kanellis |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwebattleground/2017/sami-zayn-mike-kanellis-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170730162734/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwebattleground/2017/sami-zayn-mike-kanellis-results |archive-date=July 30, 2017 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}}

{{main|Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn}}

At Hell in a Cell on October 8, Zayn helped Kevin Owens defeat Shane McMahon in a Hell in a Cell match, turning heel for the first time in his career.{{Cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=October 8, 2017 |title=Kevin Owens def. Shane McMahon (Falls Count Anywhere Hell in a Cell Match) |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/hellinacell/2017/shane-mcmahon-kevin-owens-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171122201647/http://www.wwe.com/shows/hellinacell/2017/shane-mcmahon-kevin-owens-results |archive-date=November 22, 2017 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} On the October 10 episode of SmackDown Live, Zayn referred to Owens as his "brother" and explained that his actions were due to McMahon not giving Zayn opportunities despite SmackDown being dubbed the "Land of Opportunity".{{cite web |last=Tedesco |first=Mike |date=October 10, 2017 |title=WWE Smackdown Results – 10/10/17 (Corbin vs. Styles for US Title) |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/91971-wwe-smackdown-results-october-10-2017/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180604134942/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-smackdown-results/91971-wwe-smackdown-results-october-10-2017/ |archive-date=June 4, 2018 |access-date=October 21, 2017 |website=WrestleView}} At Clash of Champions on December 17, Owens and Zayn defeated Randy Orton and Shinsuke Nakamura in a tag team match with SmackDown Commissioner Shane McMahon and SmackDown General Manager Daniel Bryan as special guest referees and their jobs on the line.{{Cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=December 17, 2017 |title=Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn def. Shinsuke Nakamura & Randy Orton |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wweclashofchampions/2017/randy-orton-shinsuke-nakamura-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171221005107/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wweclashofchampions/2017/randy-orton-shinsuke-nakamura-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-results |archive-date=December 21, 2017 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} Owens and Zayn failed to win Styles's WWE Championship in a handicap match at Royal Rumble on January 28, 2018{{Cite web |last=Melok |first=Bobby |date=January 28, 2018 |title=WWE Champion AJ Styles vs. Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2018/aj-styles-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180214011249/https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2018/aj-styles-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-results |archive-date=February 14, 2018 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} and at Fastlane on March 11 in a six-pack challenge.{{Cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=March 11, 2018 |title=WWE Champion AJ Styles def. John Cena, Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn, Dolph Ziggler and Baron Corbin (Six-Pack Challenge) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwefastlane/2018/six-pack-challenge-match-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180313031513/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwefastlane/2018/six-pack-challenge-match-results |archive-date=March 13, 2018 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}}

On the March 20 episode of SmackDown, Zayn and Owens were (kayfabe) fired by Bryan as punishment for an attack against McMahon the week prior.{{Cite web |last=Barnett |first=Jake |date=March 20, 2018 |title=3/20 Barnett's WWE Smackdown Live TV Review: Daniel Bryan opens the show and addresses being cleared to return to the ring, the build to WrestleMania 34 continues |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/03/20/3-20-barnetts-wwe-smackdown-live-tv-review-daniel-bryan-opens-show-addresses-cleared-return-ring-build-wrestlemania-34-continues/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180321130947/https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/03/20/3-20-barnetts-wwe-smackdown-live-tv-review-daniel-bryan-opens-show-addresses-cleared-return-ring-build-wrestlemania-34-continues/ |archive-date=March 21, 2018 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At WrestleMania 34 on April 8, Owens and Zayn lost to Bryan and McMahon, after Bryan submitted Zayn.{{Cite web |last=Pappolla |first=Ryan |date=April 8, 2018 |title=Daniel Bryan & Shane McMahon def. Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-34/daniel-bryan-shane-mcmahon-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180409111410/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-34/daniel-bryan-shane-mcmahon-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-results |archive-date=April 9, 2018 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} On the April 16 episode of Raw, Zayn and Owens were awarded Raw contracts by Raw Commissioner Stephanie McMahon.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=April 18, 2018 |title=WWE Raw Live TV Review: The Superstar Shakeup Night One, Sasha Banks vs. Bayley, Matt Hardy and Bray Wyatt vs. The Revival for a shot at the vacant Raw Tag Titles |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/04/16/wwe-raw-live-tv-review-the-superstar-shakeup-night-one-sasha-banks-vs-bayley-matt-hardy-and-bray-wyatt-vs-the-revival-for-a-shot-at-the-vacant-raw-tag-titles/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180417111441/https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/04/16/wwe-raw-live-tv-review-the-superstar-shakeup-night-one-sasha-banks-vs-bayley-matt-hardy-and-bray-wyatt-vs-the-revival-for-a-shot-at-the-vacant-raw-tag-titles/ |archive-date=April 17, 2018 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At Backlash on May 6, Zayn and Owens lost to Bobby Lashley and Braun Strowman.{{cite web |last1=Benigno |first1=Anthony |date=May 6, 2018 |title=Braun Strowman & Bobby Lashley def. Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/2018/braun-strowman-bobby-lashley-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180507221515/https://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/2018/braun-strowman-bobby-lashley-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-results |archive-date=May 7, 2018 |access-date=May 6, 2018 |work= |publisher=WWE}} At Money in the Bank on June 17, Zayn lost to Lashley.{{cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=June 17, 2018 |title=Bobby Lashley def. Sami Zayn |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2018/bobby-lashley-sami-zayn-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190518154930/https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2018/bobby-lashley-sami-zayn-results |archive-date=May 18, 2019 |access-date=April 26, 2018 |publisher=WWE}} Following the event, it was reported that Zayn had surgery to repair both of his rotator cuffs.{{cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=June 21, 2018 |title=Exclusive interview: Sami Zayn suffers torn rotator cuffs, undergoes surgery |url=https://www.wwe.com/article/sami-zayn-injury-interview |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180705082946/https://www.wwe.com/article/sami-zayn-injury-interview |archive-date=July 5, 2018 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |publisher=WWE}} He was later reported to have undergone a successful double shoulder surgery.{{cite tweet |number=1073632347977932801 |user=SamiZayn |title=Double shoulder surgery isn't fun, but I see the whole experience as a gift. |first=Sami |last=Zayn |author= |date=December 15, 2018 |access-date=December 17, 2018 |language=en}}

Zayn returned from injury on the April 8, 2019 episode of Raw, losing to Intercontinental Champion Finn Bálor.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=April 8, 2019 |title=4/8 Powell's WWE Raw TV Review: The night after WrestleMania 35 edition featuring new Raw and Smackdown Women's Champion Becky Lynch, new WWE Universal Champion Seth Rollins, new Intercontinental Champion Finn Balor, and new Raw Tag Champions Zack Ryder and Curt Hawkins |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/04/08/4-8-powells-wwe-raw-tv-review-the-night-after-wrestlemania-35-edition-featuring-new-raw-and-smackdown-womens-champion-becky-lynch-new-wwe-universal-champion-seth-rollins-new-intercontinental-ch/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220326055814/https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/04/08/4-8-powells-wwe-raw-tv-review-the-night-after-wrestlemania-35-edition-featuring-new-raw-and-smackdown-womens-champion-becky-lynch-new-wwe-universal-champion-seth-rollins-new-intercontinental-ch/ |archive-date=March 26, 2022 |access-date=April 9, 2019 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} The following week, Zayn defeated Strowman with the help of Baron Corbin and Drew McIntyre, earning Strowman's spot in the Money in the Bank ladder match.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=May 13, 2019 |title=5/13 WWE Raw Results: Powell's review of Becky Lynch contract signing for matches with Lacey Evans and Charlotte Flair, Roman Reigns on Miz TV, Ricochet vs. Baron Corbin, the final Raw push for Money in the Bank |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/05/13/5-13-wwe-raw-results-powells-review-of-becky-lynch-contract-signing-for-matches-with-lacey-evans-and-charlotte-flair-roman-reigns-on-miz-tv-ricochet-vs-baron-corbin-the-final-raw-push-for-money/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190514051847/https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/05/13/5-13-wwe-raw-results-powells-review-of-becky-lynch-contract-signing-for-matches-with-lacey-evans-and-charlotte-flair-roman-reigns-on-miz-tv-ricochet-vs-baron-corbin-the-final-raw-push-for-money/ |archive-date=May 14, 2019 |access-date=May 13, 2019 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At Money in the Bank on May 19, Zayn was attacked backstage and left unable to compete by who was believed to be Strowman, however it was later revealed to be Brock Lesnar, who took Zayn's place in the match.{{cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=May 19, 2019 |title=Brock Lesnar won the Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2019/mens-money-in-the-bank-ladder-match-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190605051836/https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2019/mens-money-in-the-bank-ladder-match-results |archive-date=June 5, 2019 |access-date=May 19, 2019 |work= |publisher=WWE}} Zayn and Owens defeated The New Day (Big E and Xavier Woods) at Stomping Grounds on June 23,{{cite web |last=Bristout |first=Ralph |date=June 23, 2019 |title=Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn def. Big E & Xavier Woods |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-stomping-grounds/2019/big-e-xavier-woods-vs-kevin-owens-sami-zayn |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190624013733/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-stomping-grounds/2019/big-e-xavier-woods-vs-kevin-owens-sami-zayn |archive-date=June 24, 2019 |access-date=June 23, 2019 |work= |publisher=WWE}} after which their team again drifted apart after Owens turned face and reignited his feud with Shane McMahon.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=July 16, 2019 |title=7/16 WWE Smackdown Live results: Powell's review of Shane McMahon's town hall meeting, Daniel Bryan's career altering announcement, The IIconics vs. Asuka and Kairi Sane for the Smackdown Tag Titles, Ember Moon and a mystery partner vs. Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/07/16/7-16-wwe-smackdown-live-results-powells-review-of-shane-mcmahons-town-hall-meeting-daniel-bryans-career-altering-announcement-the-iiconics-vs-asuka-and-kairi-sane-for-the-smackdown-tag-title/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190717072402/https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/07/16/7-16-wwe-smackdown-live-results-powells-review-of-shane-mcmahons-town-hall-meeting-daniel-bryans-career-altering-announcement-the-iiconics-vs-asuka-and-kairi-sane-for-the-smackdown-tag-title/ |archive-date=July 17, 2019 |access-date=July 17, 2019 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} In August, Zayn lost to Cedric Alexander in the first round of the King of the Ring tournament.{{cite web |last1=Benigno |first1=Anthony |date=August 19, 2019 |title=Cedric Alexander def. Sami Zayn (King of the Ring First-Round Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2019-08-19/article/cedric-alexander-def-sami-zayn-king-of-the-ring-match |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190823210018/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2019-08-19/article/cedric-alexander-def-sami-zayn-king-of-the-ring-match |archive-date=August 23, 2019 |access-date=August 19, 2019 |work= |publisher=WWE}}

Shortly after, Zayn joined forces with Intercontinental Champion Shinsuke Nakamura, being positioned as Nakamura's mouthpiece.{{cite web |last=Mezzera |first=Jon |date=August 22, 2010 |title=WWE Smackdown Hits & Misses 8/20: Sami and Shinsuke pair up, Reigns whodunit mystery twist, Kofi lashes back at Orton, Moment of Bliss with Charlotte and Bayley, Murphy vs. Bryan, KOTR |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2019/08/22/wwe-smackdown-hits-misses-8-20-sami-and-shinsuke-pair-up-reigns-whodunit-mystery-twist-kofi-lashes-back-at-orton-moment-of-bliss-with-charlotte-and-bayley-murphy-vs-bryan-kotr/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200420222817/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2019/08/22/wwe-smackdown-hits-misses-8-20-sami-and-shinsuke-pair-up-reigns-whodunit-mystery-twist-kofi-lashes-back-at-orton-moment-of-bliss-with-charlotte-and-bayley-murphy-vs-bryan-kotr/ |archive-date=April 20, 2020 |access-date=October 3, 2019 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} As part of the 2019 draft, Zayn was drafted to the SmackDown brand,{{cite web |author= |date=October 11, 2019 |title=See all the results from the 2019 WWE Draft |url=https://www.wwe.com/article/full-2019-wwe-draft-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200415233727/https://www.wwe.com/article/full-2019-wwe-draft-results |archive-date=April 15, 2020 |access-date=October 14, 2019 |work= |publisher=WWE}} where he also became the manager of Cesaro.{{cite web |last1=Garretson |first1=Jordan |date=November 29, 2019 |title=SmackDown Tag Team Champions The New Day def. Intercontinental Champion Shinsuke Nakamura & Cesaro |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2019-11-29/article/smackdown-tag-team-champions-the-new-day-def-intercontinental |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200727190709/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2019-11-29/article/smackdown-tag-team-champions-the-new-day-def-intercontinental |archive-date=July 27, 2020 |access-date=February 27, 2020 |website= |publisher=WWE}} At Elimination Chamber on March 8, Zayn, Nakamura, and Cesaro defeated Strowman in a 3-on-1 handicap match to win the Intercontinental Championship; Zayn won the title by pinning Strowman.{{cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=March 8, 2020 |title=Sami Zayn, Shinsuke Nakamura and Cesaro def. Braun Strowman; Zayn became the new Intercontinental Champion |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/eliminationchamber/2020/braun-strowman-vs-shinsuke-nakamura-cesaro-sami-zayn-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200727190827/https://www.wwe.com/shows/eliminationchamber/2020/braun-strowman-vs-shinsuke-nakamura-cesaro-sami-zayn-results |archive-date=July 27, 2020 |access-date=March 8, 2020 |work= |publisher=WWE}} On Night 1 of WrestleMania 36 on April 4, Zayn defeated Daniel Bryan to retain the title.{{Cite web |last=Melok |first=Bobby |date=April 4, 2020 |title=Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn def. Daniel Bryan |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-36/sami-zayn-vs-daniel-bryan-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200406180747/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-36/sami-zayn-vs-daniel-bryan-results |archive-date=April 6, 2020 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} On May 12, he was stripped of the championship after refraining from competing during the COVID-19 pandemic, ending his reign at 65 days.{{Cite web |last=Kasabian |first=Paul |date=May 12, 2020 |title=Sami Zayn Forfeits WWE Intercontinental Title; Tournament to Begin Friday |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2891451-sami-zayn-forfeits-wwe-intercontinental-title-tournament-to-begin-friday |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200520131258/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2891451-sami-zayn-forfeits-wwe-intercontinental-title-tournament-to-begin-friday |archive-date=May 20, 2020 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Bleacher Report}} Zayn returned on the August 28 episode of SmackDown, attacking Intercontinental Champion Jeff Hardy and declaring himself the "real" Intercontinental Champion.{{cite web |author1=Nemer |first=Roy |date=August 28, 2020 |title=WWE SmackDown Results – 8/28/20 (Roman Reigns returns, Payback go home) |url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-smackdown-results/165687-wwe-smackdown-results-august-28-2020/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220605102138/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-smackdown-results/165687-wwe-smackdown-results-august-28-2020/ |archive-date=June 5, 2022 |access-date=September 14, 2020 |website=WrestleView}} At Clash of Champions on September 27, Zayn defeated Hardy and AJ Styles in a triple threat ladder match to regain the Intercontinental Championship by handcuffing both with the ladders.{{Cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=September 27, 2020 |title=Sami Zayn def. Jeff Hardy and AJ Styles to win the Undisputed Intercontinental Title (Ladder Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wweclashofchampions/09-27-2020/sami-zayn-def-jeff-hardy-and-aj-styles-intercontinental-title |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201002052007/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wweclashofchampions/09-27-2020/sami-zayn-def-jeff-hardy-and-aj-styles-intercontinental-title |archive-date=October 2, 2020 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} On the October 2 episode of SmackDown, Zayn defeated Hardy to retain the title.{{cite web |last=Barnett |first=Jake |date=October 2, 2020 |title=10/2 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Barnett's review of Roman Reigns being crowned Tribal Chief, Sami Zayn vs. Jeff Hardy for the Intercontinental Championship, Alexa Bliss on the KO Show |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/10/02/10-2-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-barnetts-review-of-roman-reigns-being-crowned-tribal-chief-sami-zayn-vs-jeff-hardy-for-the-intercontinental-championship-alexa-bliss-on-the-ko-show/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404103335/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/10/02/10-2-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-barnetts-review-of-roman-reigns-being-crowned-tribal-chief-sami-zayn-vs-jeff-hardy-for-the-intercontinental-championship-alexa-bliss-on-the-ko-show/ |archive-date=April 4, 2023 |access-date=October 3, 2020 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At Survivor Series on November 22, Zayn lost to United States Champion Bobby Lashley in a champion vs. champion match.{{cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=November 22, 2020 |title=United States Champion Bobby Lashley def. Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/survivor-series/11-22-2020/bobby-lashley-vs-sami-zayn-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201123100045/https://www.wwe.com/shows/survivor-series/11-22-2020/bobby-lashley-vs-sami-zayn-results |archive-date=November 23, 2020 |access-date=November 22, 2020 |work= |publisher=WWE}} On the December 25 episode of SmackDown, he lost the Intercontinental Championship to Big E, ending his second reign at 89 days.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=December 25, 2020 |title=12/25 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of Roman Reigns vs. Kevin Owens in a cage match for the WWE Universal Title, Sami Zayn vs. Big E for the IC Title, Charlotte Flair and Asuka vs. Carmella and Bayley vs. Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair for the WWE Women's Tag Titles, Daniel Bryan vs. Jey Uso |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/12/25/12-25-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-roman-reigns-vs-kevin-owens-in-a-cage-match-for-the-wwe-universal-title-sami-zayn-vs-big-e-for-the-ic-title-charlotte-flair-and-asuka/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201230034140/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/12/25/12-25-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-roman-reigns-vs-kevin-owens-in-a-cage-match-for-the-wwe-universal-title-sami-zayn-vs-big-e-for-the-ic-title-charlotte-flair-and-asuka/ |archive-date=December 30, 2020 |access-date=December 25, 2020 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}

On January 31, 2021, at Royal Rumble, Zayn entered at number 3, but was eliminated by Big E.{{cite web |last=Clapp |first=John |date=January 31, 2021 |title=Edge won the 2021 Royal Rumble Match |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/01-31-2021/mens-royal-rumble-match-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210201054241/https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/01-31-2021/mens-royal-rumble-match-results |archive-date=February 1, 2021 |access-date=November 27, 2021 |work= |publisher=WWE}} At Elimination Chamber on February 21, Zayn competed in the Elimination Chamber match where the winner would receive an immediate Universal Championship match, but was the second man eliminated by Kevin Owens.{{Cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=February 21, 2021 |title=Daniel Bryan won the Elimination Chamber Match to earn a Universal Title opportunity |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/eliminationchamber/2021/smackdown-elimination-chamber-match-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210222080007/https://www.wwe.com/shows/eliminationchamber/2021/smackdown-elimination-chamber-match-results |archive-date=February 22, 2021 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} Zayn lost to Owens at Night 2 of WrestleMania 37 on April 11,{{cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=April 11, 2021 |title=Kevin Owens def. Sami Zayn |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-37-night-2/kevin-owens-vs-sami-zayn-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210412023541/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-37-night-2/kevin-owens-vs-sami-zayn-results |archive-date=April 12, 2021 |access-date=November 27, 2021 |work= |publisher=WWE}} defeated Owens at Hell in a Cell on June 20,{{Cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=June 20, 2021 |title=Sami Zayn def. Kevin Owens |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/hellinacell/2021/kevin-owens-vs-sami-zayn-results |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210621172011/https://www.wwe.com/shows/hellinacell/2021/kevin-owens-vs-sami-zayn-results |archive-date=June 21, 2021 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} and lost to Owens again in a Last Man Standing Money in the Bank qualifying match on the July 2 episode of SmackDown.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=July 2, 2021 |title=7/2 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of Edge addressing Roman Reigns, Kevin Owens vs. Sami Zayn in a Last Man Standing match to qualify for the Money in the Bank ladder match |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/07/02/7-2-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-edge-addressing-roman-reigns-kevin-owens-vs-sami-zayn-in-a-last-man-standing-match-to-qualify-for-the-money-in-the-bank-ladder-match/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220417191151/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/07/02/7-2-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-edge-addressing-roman-reigns-kevin-owens-vs-sami-zayn-in-a-last-man-standing-match-to-qualify-for-the-money-in-the-bank-ladder-match/ |archive-date=April 17, 2022 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}

In October, Zayn entered the King of the Ring tournament, defeating Rey Mysterio in the first round but lost to Finn Bálor in the semi-finals.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=October 8, 2021 |title=10/08 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of Rey Mysterio vs. Sami Zayn in a King of the Ring tournament match, Liv Morgan vs. Carmella in a Queens Crown tournament match, contract signing for Becky Lynch vs. Bianca Belair vs. Sasha Banks at WWE Crown Jewel |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/10/08/10-08-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-rey-mysterio-vs-sami-zayn-in-a-king-of-the-ring-tournament-match-liv-morgan-vs-carmella-in-a-queens-crown-tournament-match-contract-si/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211009065302/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/10/08/10-08-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-rey-mysterio-vs-sami-zayn-in-a-king-of-the-ring-tournament-match-liv-morgan-vs-carmella-in-a-queens-crown-tournament-match-contract-si/ |archive-date=October 9, 2021 |access-date=October 9, 2021 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=October 15, 2021 |title=10/15 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell’s review of the supersized edition with Brock Lesnar, Becky Lynch vs. Sasha Banks in a non-title match, Finn Balor vs. Sami Zayn in a KOTR semifinal match, Carmella vs. Zelina Vega in a Queen’s Crown semifinal match, Sonya Deville vs. Naomi |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2021-10-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211016105618/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2021-10-15 |archive-date=October 16, 2021 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} On November 6, Zayn was announced as a part of Team SmackDown at Survivor Series,{{cite web |last=Wilen |first=Jerome |title=WWE Raw and SmackDown Men's and Women's Teams announced for Survivor Series |url=https://www.wrestleview.com/featured-top-story/212435-wwe-raw-and-smackdown-mens-and-womens-team-announced-for-survivor-series/ |work=WrestleView |access-date=November 27, 2021 |date=November 6, 2021 |archive-date=November 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106223008/https://www.wrestleview.com/featured-top-story/212435-wwe-raw-and-smackdown-mens-and-womens-team-announced-for-survivor-series/ |url-status=live}} however, on the November 12 episode of SmackDown, Zayn faced Hardy in a match with the stipulation that whoever lost was removed from the SmackDown Survivor Series team, which Zayn lost, thus removing him.{{cite web |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/11/12/11-12-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-barnetts-review-of-wwe-universal-champion-roman-reigns-vs-king-woods-the-return-of-sasha-banks-shinsuke-nakamura-and-rick-boogs-vs-los-lotharios-the-bu/ |title=11/12 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Barnett's review of WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns vs. King Woods, the return of Sasha Banks, Shinsuke Nakamura and Rick Boogs vs. Los Lotharios, the build to Survivor Series |date=November 12, 2021 |last=Barnett |first=Jake |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net |access-date=November 27, 2021 |archive-date=November 13, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211113040527/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/11/12/11-12-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-barnetts-review-of-wwe-universal-champion-roman-reigns-vs-king-woods-the-return-of-sasha-banks-shinsuke-nakamura-and-rick-boogs-vs-los-lotharios-the-bu/ |url-status=live}} On the November 26 episode of SmackDown, Zayn won a battle royal to become the number one contender for the Universal Championship by last eliminating Hardy.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=November 26, 2021 |title=11/26 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of the Black Friday Battle Royal for a future shot at the WWE Universal Championship, Drew McIntyre and Jeff Hardy vs. Happy Corbin and Madcap Moss, Ridge Holland vs. Cesaro |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/11/26/11-26-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-the-black-friday-battle-royal-for-a-future-shot-at-the-wwe-universal-championship-drew-mcintyre-and-jeff-hardy-vs-happy-corbin-and-madca/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211128103716/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/11/26/11-26-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-the-black-friday-battle-royal-for-a-future-shot-at-the-wwe-universal-championship-drew-mcintyre-and-jeff-hardy-vs-happy-corbin-and-madca/ |archive-date=November 28, 2021 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} Zayn received his title match against Roman Reigns on the December 3 episode of SmackDown, but lost in 15 seconds due to Brock Lesnar attacking him before the match.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=December 3, 2021 |title=12/3 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of Roman Reigns vs. Sami Zayn for the WWE Universal Championship, Brock Lesnar's return, Sheamus vs. Cesaro, King Woods vs. Jey Uso, Sasha Banks vs. Shayna Baszler |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/12/03/12-3-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-roman-reigns-vs-sami-zayn-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-brock-lesnars-return-sheamus-vs-cesaro-king-woods-vs-jey-uso-sasha-ba/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211204193009/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/12/03/12-3-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-roman-reigns-vs-sami-zayn-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-brock-lesnars-return-sheamus-vs-cesaro-king-woods-vs-jey-uso-sasha-ba/ |archive-date=December 4, 2021 |access-date=December 3, 2021 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}

On the January 7, 2022 episode of SmackDown, Zayn entered a feud with Johnny Knoxville, who announced his entry in the Royal Rumble match.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=January 7, 2022 |title=1/7 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of the confrontation between WWE Champion Brock Lesnar and WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns, The Usos vs. Kofi Kingston and King Woods in a Street Fight for the Smackdown Tag Titles, Sami Zayn vs. Rick Boogs |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/01/07/1-7-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-the-confrontation-between-wwe-champion-brock-lesnar-and-wwe-universal-champion-roman-reigns-the-usos-vs-kofi-kingston-and-king-woods-in-a/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220108212145/https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/01/07/1-7-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-the-confrontation-between-wwe-champion-brock-lesnar-and-wwe-universal-champion-roman-reigns-the-usos-vs-kofi-kingston-and-king-woods-in-a/ |archive-date=January 8, 2022 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At the titular event on January 29, Zayn entered at number 8 and eliminated Knoxville before being eliminated by Styles.{{cite web |last=Bryant |first=Nathan |date=January 29, 2022 |title=Brock Lesnar wins the 30-Man Royal Rumble Match |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2022/30-man-royal-rumble-match-results |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220130053006/https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2022/30-man-royal-rumble-match-results |archive-date=January 30, 2022 |access-date=January 29, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}} On the February 18 (taped February 11){{Cite web |last=Guzzo |first=Gisberto |date=February 12, 2022 |title=WWE SmackDown Spoilers For 2/18/22 (Taped On 2/11/22) |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/results/wwe-smackdown-spoilers-21822-taped-21122 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220212153552/https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/results/wwe-smackdown-spoilers-21822-taped-21122 |archive-date=February 12, 2022 |access-date=September 7, 2022 |website=Fightful.com}} episode of SmackDown, Zayn defeated Shinsuke Nakamura to win his third Intercontinental Championship.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=February 18, 2022 |title=2/18 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of Roman Reigns and Goldberg meeting face to face, Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Sami Zayn for the Intercontinental Championship, the contract signing for Ronda Rousey and Naomi vs. Charlotte Flair and Sonya Deville at Elimination Chamber |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/02/18/2-18-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-roman-reigns-and-goldberg-meeting-face-to-face-shinsuke-nakamura-vs-sami-zayn-for-the-intercontinental-championship-the-contract-signing/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220601205858/https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/02/18/2-18-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-roman-reigns-and-goldberg-meeting-face-to-face-shinsuke-nakamura-vs-sami-zayn-for-the-intercontinental-championship-the-contract-signing/ |archive-date=June 1, 2022 |access-date=February 19, 2022 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} He lost the title to Ricochet on the March 4 episode of SmackDown after interference from Knoxville, ending his reign at 21 days (recognized by WWE as 13 days).{{cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |author-link=Wade Keller |date=March 4, 2022 |title=3/4 WWE SmackDown Results: Keller's report on Sami defending against Ricochet, Usos defending against Raiders, Rousey vs. Deville |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2022/03/04/3-4-wwe-smackdown-results-kellers-report-on-sami-defending-against-ricochet-usos-defending-against-raiders-rousey-vs-deville/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220305040221/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2022/03/04/3-4-wwe-smackdown-results-kellers-report-on-sami-defending-against-ricochet-usos-defending-against-raiders-rousey-vs-deville/ |archive-date=March 5, 2022 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} The following week, Zayn failed to regain the Intercontinental Championship from Ricochet.{{Cite web |last=Barnett |first=Jake |date=March 11, 2022 |title=3/11 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Barnett's review of Ricochet vs. Sami Zayn for the Intercontinental Championship, Big E injured during a tag match with Kofi Kingston vs. Sheamus and Ridge Holland, Sasha Banks and Naomi vs. Shayna Baszler and Natalya, Jey Uso vs. Rick Boogs |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/03/11/3-11-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-barnetts-review-of-ricochet-vs-sami-zayn-for-the-intercontinental-championship-big-e-injured-during-a-tag-match-with-kofi-kingston-vs-sheamus-and-ridge-ho/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220706110909/https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/03/11/3-11-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-barnetts-review-of-ricochet-vs-sami-zayn-for-the-intercontinental-championship-big-e-injured-during-a-tag-match-with-kofi-kingston-vs-sheamus-and-ridge-ho/ |archive-date=July 6, 2022 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} On Night 2 of WrestleMania 38 on April 3, Zayn lost to Knoxville in an Anything Goes match after interference from the latter's Jackass co-actors.{{cite web |last=Clapp |first=John |date=April 3, 2022 |title=Johnny Knoxville def. Sami Zayn (Anything Goes Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-38/wrestlemania-sunday/johnny-knoxville-vs-sami-zayn-results |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220404070042/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-38/wrestlemania-sunday/johnny-knoxville-vs-sami-zayn-results |archive-date=April 4, 2022 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website= |publisher=WWE}}

{{main|The Bloodline (professional wrestling)|Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn}}

Following WrestleMania, having felt as he had lost respect and credibility in the locker room, Zayn sought to seek favor with The Bloodline, a stable led by Reigns.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=April 22, 2022 |title=4/22 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of Drew McIntyre vs. Sami Zayn in a lumberjack match, the Charlotte Flair and Ronda Rousey contract signing for WrestleMania Backlash, Riddle vs. Jey Uso, Madcap Moss vs. Angel |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/04/22/4-22-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-drew-mcintyre-vs-sami-zayn-in-a-lumberjack-match-the-charlotte-flair-and-ronda-rousey-contract-signing-for-wrestlemania-backlash-ri/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220423090646/https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/04/22/4-22-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-drew-mcintyre-vs-sami-zayn-in-a-lumberjack-match-the-charlotte-flair-and-ronda-rousey-contract-signing-for-wrestlemania-backlash-ri/ |archive-date=April 23, 2022 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} On the May 27 episode of SmackDown, he was deemed an "Honorary Uce" and became an associate of the group.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=May 27, 2022 |title=5/27 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of Kofi Kingston, Xavier Woods, and a mystery partner vs. Sheamus, Ridge Holland, and Butch, Smackdown Women's Champion Ronda Rousey vs. Raquel Rodriguez in a non-title match, Kevin Owens hosts The KO Show, Drew McIntyre returns |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/05/27/5-27-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-kofi-kingston-xavier-woods-and-a-mystery-partner-vs-sheamus-ridge-holland-and-butch-smackdown-womens-champion-ronda-rousey-vs/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220528075337/https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/05/27/5-27-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-kofi-kingston-xavier-woods-and-a-mystery-partner-vs-sheamus-ridge-holland-and-butch-smackdown-womens-champion-ronda-rousey-vs/ |archive-date=May 28, 2022 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At Money in the Bank on July 2, Zayn competed in the Money in the Bank ladder match, which was won by Theory.{{cite web |last=Miller |first=Gregory |date=July 2, 2022 |title=Theory def. Drew McIntyre, Madcap Moss, Omos, Riddle, Sami Zayn, Seth "Freakin" Rollins and Sheamus (Money in the Bank Ladder Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2022-mens-money-in-the-bank-ladder-match-results |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221108081122/https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2022-mens-money-in-the-bank-ladder-match-results |archive-date=November 8, 2022 |access-date=September 17, 2022 |work= |publisher=WWE}} On the September 23 episode of SmackDown, Reigns declared Zayn an official "Honorary Uce".{{cite web |last=Barnett |first=Jake |date=September 23, 2022 |title=9/23 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Barnett's review of Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns' appearance, Jimmy Uso and Jey Uso vs. Ridge Holland and Butch for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Titles, Braun Strowman vs. Otis |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/09/23/9-23-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-barnetts-review-of-undisputed-wwe-universal-champion-roman-reigns-appearance-jimmy-uso-and-jey-uso-vs-ridge-holland-and-butch-for-the-undisputed-wwe/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220924162416/https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/09/23/9-23-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-barnetts-review-of-undisputed-wwe-universal-champion-roman-reigns-appearance-jimmy-uso-and-jey-uso-vs-ridge-holland-and-butch-for-the-undisputed-wwe/ |archive-date=September 24, 2022 |access-date=September 26, 2022 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} Tensions also rose between Zayn and Bloodline member Jey Uso, who did not trust Zayn and constantly argued with him.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=October 7, 2022 |title=10/07 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of the season premiere, Gunther vs. Sheamus for the Intercontinental Championship, Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns and Logan Paul meet face to face, Solo Sikoa vs. Ricochet |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/10/07/10-07-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-the-season-premiere-gunther-vs-sheamus-for-the-intercontinental-championship-undisputed-wwe-universal-champion-roman-reigns-and-logan-p/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221009153744/https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/10/07/10-07-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-the-season-premiere-gunther-vs-sheamus-for-the-intercontinental-championship-undisputed-wwe-universal-champion-roman-reigns-and-logan-p/ |archive-date=October 9, 2022 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=October 14, 2022 |title=10/14 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of Bray Wyatt's return, Sheamus vs. Ricochet vs. Karrion Kross vs. Solo Sikoa in a four-way for a shot at the Intercontinental Championship, Kofi Kingston vs. Sami Zayn, LA Knight vs. Mansoor |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/10/14/10-14-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-bray-wyatts-return-sheamus-vs-ricochet-vs-karrion-kross-vs-solo-sikoa-in-a-four-way-for-a-shot-at-the-intercontinental-champion/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221015033738/https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/10/14/10-14-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-bray-wyatts-return-sheamus-vs-ricochet-vs-karrion-kross-vs-solo-sikoa-in-a-four-way-for-a-shot-at-the-intercontinental-champion/ |archive-date=October 15, 2022 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=October 28, 2022 |title=10/28 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of Roman Reigns' latest appearance, Smackdown Women's Champion Ronda Rousey's open challenge, Top Dolla, Ashante Thee Adonis, and a mystery partner vs. Legado Del Fantasma, Sami Zayn and Solo Sikoa vs. Ridge Holland and Butch |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/10/28/10-28-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-roman-reigns-latest-appearance-smackdown-womens-champion-ronda-rouseys-open-challenge-top-dolla-ashante-thee-adonis-an/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221030141520/https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/10/28/10-28-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-roman-reigns-latest-appearance-smackdown-womens-champion-ronda-rouseys-open-challenge-top-dolla-ashante-thee-adonis-an/ |archive-date=October 30, 2022 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At Survivor Series: WarGames on November 26, Zayn, along with The Bloodline, defeated The Brawling Brutes (Sheamus, Butch, and Ridge Holland), Kevin Owens and Drew McIntyre in a WarGames match. After the match, due to Zayn showing his loyalty to the stable by delivering a low blow to Owens, Jey accepted Zayn as part of The Bloodline.{{Cite web |date=November 26, 2022 |title=Roman Reigns, The Usos, Solo Sikoa and Sami Zayn def. Drew McIntyre, Kevin Owens, Sheamus, Ridge Holland and Butch |url=https://www.wwe.com/survivor-series-2022/mens-wargames-match-results |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221127063907/https://www.wwe.com/survivor-series-2022/mens-wargames-match-results |archive-date=November 27, 2022 |access-date=November 27, 2022 |work= |publisher=WWE}} In January 2023, Zayn was placed in Tribal Court at Raw is XXX, but he would be found "not guilty, for now" in regard to betraying The Bloodline.{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=1/23 WWE Raw XXX results: Powell's live review of Austin Theory vs. Bobby Lashley in a No DQ match for the U.S. Title, The Usos vs. Dominik Mysterio and Damian Priest for the Raw Tag Team Titles, Becky Lynch vs. Bayley in a cage match, Sami Zay goes to Tribal Court, legends return, the brand's final push for the Royal Rumble|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/01/23/1-23-wwe-raw-xxx-results-powells-live-review-of-austin-theory-vs-bobby-lashley-in-a-no-dq-match-for-the-u-s-title-the-usos-vs-dominik-mysterio-and-damian-priest-for-the-raw-tag-team-titles-bec/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=January 23, 2023|access-date=January 23, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230124005918/https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/01/23/1-23-wwe-raw-xxx-results-powells-live-review-of-austin-theory-vs-bobby-lashley-in-a-no-dq-match-for-the-u-s-title-the-usos-vs-dominik-mysterio-and-damian-priest-for-the-raw-tag-team-titles-bec/|archive-date=January 24, 2023|url-status=live}}

File:Kevin Owens and Sami zayn wwe live event.jpg, Zayn reunited with Kevin Owens in 2023.]]

At Royal Rumble on January 28, after Reigns retained the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Owens, he had the rest of The Bloodline beat Owens down, but Zayn refused to join the beatdown and eventually hit Reigns with a chair, leading to the entire Bloodline (excluding Jey) attacking Zayn, turning face for the first time since 2017.{{cite web |last=Miller |first=Gregory |date=January 28, 2023 |title=Roman Reigns def. Kevin Owens to retain Undisputed WWE Universal Championship; Sami Zayn was beaten by The Bloodline after hitting Reigns with a steel chair |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2023/roman-reigns-vs-kevin-owens-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230129065228/https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2023/roman-reigns-vs-kevin-owens-results |archive-date=January 29, 2023 |access-date=January 28, 2023 |work= |publisher=WWE}} On February 18, at Elimination Chamber, Zayn faced Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship in front of his home crowd in Montreal, but failed to win the titles. After the match, Owens saved Zayn from a beatdown by Reigns and Jimmy.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=February 19, 2023 |title=Roman Reigns def. Sami Zayn to retain the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/eliminationchamber/2023/roman-reigns-vs-sami-zayn-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230219061557/https://www.wwe.com/shows/eliminationchamber/2023/roman-reigns-vs-sami-zayn-results |archive-date=February 19, 2023 |access-date=February 19, 2023 |work= |publisher=WWE}} Jey remained unbiased until the March 6 episode of Raw, where he hit Zayn with a superkick to end their alliance.{{cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |author-link=Wade Keller |date=March 6, 2023 |title=3/6 WWE Monday Night Raw Results: Keller's report on John Cena's return, Seth invites Logan Paul, Jey-Sami, Belair-Carmella |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2023/03/06/3-6-wwe-monday-night-raw-results-kellers-report-on-john-cenas-return-seth-invites-logan-paul-jey-sami-belair-carmella/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230307113207/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2023/03/06/3-6-wwe-monday-night-raw-results-kellers-report-on-john-cenas-return-seth-invites-logan-paul-jey-sami-belair-carmella/ |archive-date=March 7, 2023 |access-date=March 7, 2023 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}{{cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |author-link=Wade Keller |date=March 10, 2023 |title=3/10 WWE SmackDown Results: Keller's report on Strowman & Ricochet vs. Viking Raiders, Five-Way for IC Title, Jey Uso returns |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2023/03/10/3-3-wwe-smackdown-results-kellers-report-on-strowman-ricochet-vs-viking-raiders-five-way-for-ic-title-jey-uso-returns/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230314204903/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2023/03/10/3-3-wwe-smackdown-results-kellers-report-on-strowman-ricochet-vs-viking-raiders-five-way-for-ic-title-jey-uso-returns/ |archive-date=March 14, 2023 |access-date=March 11, 2023 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}

On Night 1 of WrestleMania 39 on April 1, Zayn and Owens defeated The Usos to win the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship (consisting of both the Raw and SmackDown Tag Team Championships) in the main event.{{cite web |last=Miller |first=Gregory |date=April 1, 2023 |title=Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn def. The Usos to become the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/the-usos-vs-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230402042607/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/the-usos-vs-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-results |archive-date=April 2, 2023 |access-date=April 1, 2023 |work= |publisher=WWE}} They successfully defended the titles in a rematch on the April 28 episode of SmackDown.{{cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |author-link=Wade Keller |date=April 28, 2023 |title=4/28 WWE SmackDown Results: Keller's report on WWE Draft Night 1, Owens & Sami vs. Usos for WWE Tag Team Titles |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2023/04/28/4-28-wwe-smackdown-results-kellers-report-on-wwe-draft-night-1-owens-sami-vs-usos-for-wwe-tag-team-titles/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230430121410/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2023/04/28/4-28-wwe-smackdown-results-kellers-report-on-wwe-draft-night-1-owens-sami-vs-usos-for-wwe-tag-team-titles/ |archive-date=April 30, 2023 |access-date=April 28, 2023 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} As part of the 2023 WWE Draft, Zayn, along with Owens, was drafted to the Raw brand.{{cite web |date=April 28, 2023 |title=See all the results from the 2023 Draft |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/article/latest-wwe-draft-results-2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230502040754/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/article/latest-wwe-draft-results-2023 |archive-date=May 2, 2023 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |work= |publisher=WWE}} On May 27, at Night of Champions, Zayn and Owens retained their Undisputed Tag Team Championship against Reigns and Solo Sikoa.{{cite web |last=Miller |first=Gregory |date=May 27, 2023 |title=Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn def. Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/nightofchampions/2023/sami-zayn-kevin-owens-vs-roman-reigns-solo-sikoa-results |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230527213413/https://www.wwe.com/shows/nightofchampions/2023/sami-zayn-kevin-owens-vs-roman-reigns-solo-sikoa-results |archive-date=May 27, 2023 |access-date=May 27, 2023 |work= |publisher=WWE}} At Payback on September 2, Owens and Zayn lost the titles to The Judgment Day's Damian Priest and Finn Bálor in a Pittsburgh Steel City Street Fight, ending their reign at 154 days.{{Cite web |last=Gilpin |first=Matt |date=September 2, 2023 |title=WWE Payback 2023 full recap, highlights, photos and exclusives |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwepayback/2023/results |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230903034211/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwepayback/2023/results |archive-date=September 3, 2023 |access-date=September 3, 2023 |website= |publisher=WWE}} They were unsuccessful in a rematch for the titles on the September 25 episode of Raw.{{cite web |last=Brookhouse |first=Brent |date=September 25, 2023 |title=WWE Raw results, recap, grades: Judgment Day beats Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn in chaotic main event |url=https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-raw-results-recap-grades-judgment-day-beats-kevin-owens-and-sami-zayn-in-chaotic-main-event/live/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231004045223/https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-raw-results-recap-grades-judgment-day-beats-kevin-owens-and-sami-zayn-in-chaotic-main-event/live/ |archive-date=October 4, 2023 |access-date=September 25, 2023 |work=CBSSports.com}} In October, Owens was traded to the SmackDown brand, splitting up the team of Zayn and Owens.{{cite web |last=Tessier |first=Colin |date=October 13, 2023 |title=Kevin Owens: My 'Bittersweet' Move To WWE SmackDown Effectively Ends My Partnership With Sami Zayn |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/kevin-owens-my-bittersweet-move-wwe-smackdown-effectively-ends-my-partnership-sami-zayn |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023122317/https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/kevin-owens-my-bittersweet-move-wwe-smackdown-effectively-ends-my-partnership-sami-zayn |archive-date=October 23, 2023 |access-date=October 13, 2023 |work=Fightful.com}}

After his split from Owens, Zayn continued feuding with The Judgment Day.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=October 16, 2023 |title=WWE Raw results (10/16): Powell’s live review of the season premiere, Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso vs. Damian Priest and Finn Balor for the Undisputed WWE Tag Titles, Gunther vs. Bronson Reed for the IC Title |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/10/16/wwe-raw-results-10-16-powells-live-review-of-the-season-premiere-cody-rhodes-and-jey-uso-vs-damian-priest-and-finn-balor-for-the-undisputed-wwe-tag-titles-gunther-vs-bronson-reed-for-the/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240304215408/https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/10/16/wwe-raw-results-10-16-powells-live-review-of-the-season-premiere-cody-rhodes-and-jey-uso-vs-damian-priest-and-finn-balor-for-the-undisputed-wwe-tag-titles-gunther-vs-bronson-reed-for-the/ |archive-date=March 4, 2024 |access-date=October 31, 2023 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=October 23, 2023 |title=WWE Raw results (10/23): Powell's live review of Drew McIntyre vs. Sami Zayn, Becky Lynch vs. Indi Hartwell for the NXT Women's Title, Damian Priest vs. Jey Uso, Logan Paul's appearance |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/10/23/wwe-raw-results-10-23-powells-live-review-of-drew-mcintyre-vs-sami-zayn-becky-lynch-vs-indi-hartwell-for-the-nxt-womens-title-damian-priest-vs-jey-uso-logan-pauls-appearance/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029111507/https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/10/23/wwe-raw-results-10-23-powells-live-review-of-drew-mcintyre-vs-sami-zayn-becky-lynch-vs-indi-hartwell-for-the-nxt-womens-title-damian-priest-vs-jey-uso-logan-pauls-appearance/ |archive-date=October 29, 2023 |access-date=October 31, 2023 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=October 30, 2023 |title=WWE Raw results (10/30): Powell's live review of Seth Rollins vs. JD McDonagh in a non-title match, Dominik Mysterio vs. Ricochet in a non-title match, DIY vs. Ludwig Kaiser and Giovanni Vinci |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/10/30/wwe-raw-results-10-30-powells-live-review-of-seth-rollins-vs-jd-mcdonagh-in-a-non-title-match-dominik-mysterio-vs-ricochet-in-a-non-title-match-diy-vs-ludwig-kaiser-and-giovanni-vinci/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031031357/https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/10/30/wwe-raw-results-10-30-powells-live-review-of-seth-rollins-vs-jd-mcdonagh-in-a-non-title-match-dominik-mysterio-vs-ricochet-in-a-non-title-match-diy-vs-ludwig-kaiser-and-giovanni-vinci/ |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |access-date=October 31, 2023 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At Crown Jewel on November 4, he defeated JD McDonagh on the kickoff show.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=November 4, 2023 |title=WWE Crown Jewel results: Powell’s review of Roman Reigns vs. LA Knight for the WWE Universal Title, Seth Rollins vs. Drew McIntyre for the World Heavyweight Title, Rey Mysterio vs. Logan Paul for the U.S. Title |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/11/04/wwe-crown-jewel-results-powells-review-of-roman-reigns-vs-la-knight-for-the-wwe-universal-title-seth-rollins-vs-drew-mcintyre-for-the-world-heavyweight-title-rey-mysterio-vs-logan-paul-for-the/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231106002340/https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/11/04/wwe-crown-jewel-results-powells-review-of-roman-reigns-vs-la-knight-for-the-wwe-universal-title-seth-rollins-vs-drew-mcintyre-for-the-world-heavyweight-title-rey-mysterio-vs-logan-paul-for-the/ |archive-date=November 6, 2023 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} Two days later on Raw, Zayn challenged Seth "Freakin" Rollins for the World Heavyweight Championship in a losing effort.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=November 6, 2023 |title=WWE Raw results (11/06): Powell's live review of Seth Rollins vs. Sami Zayn for the World Heavyweight Championship, Ricochet vs. Miz vs. Bronson Reed vs. Ivar for a shot at the Intercontinental Championship |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/11/06/wwe-raw-results-11-06-powells-live-review-of-ricochet-vs-miz-vs-bronson-reed-vs-ivar-for-a-shot-at-the-intercontinental-championship-battle-royal-for-a-shot-at-the-womens-world-championship/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231108105848/https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/11/06/wwe-raw-results-11-06-powells-live-review-of-ricochet-vs-miz-vs-bronson-reed-vs-ivar-for-a-shot-at-the-intercontinental-championship-battle-royal-for-a-shot-at-the-womens-world-championship/ |archive-date=November 8, 2023 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At Survivor Series: WarGames on November 25, Zayn, Rollins, Jey Uso, Cody Rhodes and the returning Randy Orton defeated The Judgment Day (Priest, Bálor, McDonagh and "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio) and Drew McIntyre in a WarGames match.{{cite web |last=Brookhouse |first=Brent |date=November 26, 2023 |title=2023 WWE Survivor Series results, recap, grades: CM Punk makes shocking return after WarGames main event |url=https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/2023-wwe-survivor-series-results-recap-grades-cm-punk-makes-shocking-return-after-wargames-main-event/live/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240129072324/https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/2023-wwe-survivor-series-results-recap-grades-cm-punk-makes-shocking-return-after-wargames-main-event/live/ |archive-date=January 29, 2024 |access-date=November 26, 2023 |website=CBSSports.com}} At Royal Rumble on January 27, 2024, Zayn entered at number 30 and eliminated Priest before being eliminated by McIntyre.{{cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |author-link=Wade Keller |date=January 27, 2024 |title=WWE Royal Rumble results (1/27): Keller's report on Roman Reigns vs. LA Knight vs. AJ Styles vs. Randy Orton, Logan Paul vs. Kevin Owens, Men's and Women's Rumbles |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2024/01/27/wwe-royal-rumble-results-1-27-kellers-report-on-roman-reigns-vs-la-knight-vs-aj-styles-vs-randy-orton-logan-paul-vs-kevin-owens-mens-and-womens-rumbles/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240128122239/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2024/01/27/wwe-royal-rumble-results-1-27-kellers-report-on-roman-reigns-vs-la-knight-vs-aj-styles-vs-randy-orton-logan-paul-vs-kevin-owens-mens-and-womens-rumbles/ |archive-date=January 28, 2024 |access-date=January 27, 2024 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}

File:Sami Zayn, April 2024.jpg in April 2024]]

On the March 11 episode of Raw, Zayn won a gauntlet match to earn an Intercontinental Championship match against Gunther at WrestleMania XL.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=March 11, 2024 |title=WWE Raw results (3/11): Powell's live review of Sami Zayn vs. Ricochet vs. Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Bronson Reed vs. JD McDonagh vs. Chad Gable in a gauntlet match for a shot at the IC Title, Becky Lynch vs. Liv Morgan |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/03/11/wwe-raw-results-3-11-powells-live-review-of-sami-zayn-vs-ricochet-vs-shinsuke-nakamura-vs-bronson-reed-vs-jd-mcdonagh-vs-chad-gable-in-a-gauntlet-match-for-a-shot-at-the-ic-title-becky-lync/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240312215417/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/03/11/wwe-raw-results-3-11-powells-live-review-of-sami-zayn-vs-ricochet-vs-shinsuke-nakamura-vs-bronson-reed-vs-jd-mcdonagh-vs-chad-gable-in-a-gauntlet-match-for-a-shot-at-the-ic-title-becky-lync/ |archive-date=March 12, 2024 |access-date=March 11, 2024 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} Leading up to the event, he received training for the match by Chad Gable. On Night 1 of WrestleMania XL on April 7, Zayn defeated Gunther to win the Intercontinental Championship for the fourth time, ending Gunther's record-setting title reign at 666 days and giving him his first pinfall loss on the main roster.{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=WrestleMania XL results: Powell's live review of night one with The Rock and Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins and Cody Rhodes, Rhea Ripley vs. Becky Lynch for the Women's World Championship|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/04/06/wrestlemania-xl-results-powells-live-review-of-night-one-with-the-rock-and-roman-reigns-vs-seth-rollins-and-cody-rhodes-rhea-ripley-vs-becky-lynch-for-the-womens-world-championship/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=April 6, 2024|access-date=April 6, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240518161744/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/04/06/wrestlemania-xl-results-powells-live-review-of-night-one-with-the-rock-and-roman-reigns-vs-seth-rollins-and-cody-rhodes-rhea-ripley-vs-becky-lynch-for-the-womens-world-championship/|archive-date=May 18, 2024|url-status=live}} As a token of gratitude, Zayn gave Gable a title shot on the April 15 episode of Raw, successfully defending the title. After the match, Gable attacked Zayn as he was celebrating with his wife at ringside.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=April 15, 2024 |title=WWE Raw results (4/15): Powell’s live review of Sami Zayn vs. Chad Gable for the Intercontinental Title, Rhea Ripley appearance, Andrade vs. Dominik Mysterio, Sheamus returns, Jey Uso vs. Finn Balor |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/04/15/wwe-raw-results-4-15-powells-live-review-of-sami-zayn-vs-chad-gable-for-the-intercontinental-title-rhea-ripley-appearance-andrade-vs-dominik-mysterio-sheamus-returns-jey-uso-vs-finn-balor/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416223512/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/04/15/wwe-raw-results-4-15-powells-live-review-of-sami-zayn-vs-chad-gable-for-the-intercontinental-title-rhea-ripley-appearance-andrade-vs-dominik-mysterio-sheamus-returns-jey-uso-vs-finn-balor/ |archive-date=April 16, 2024 |access-date=April 16, 2024 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} On the April 29 episode of Raw, Zayn defended his title against Bronson Reed, winning the match by disqualification after Gable attacked him.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=April 29, 2024 |title=WWE Raw results (4/29): Powell’s live review of the WWE Draft night two, Sami Zayn vs. Bronson Reed for the Intercontinental Title, appearances by Women’s World Champion Becky Lynch and U.S. Champion Logan Paul |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/04/29/wwe-raw-results-4-29-powells-live-review-of-the-wwe-draft-night-two-sami-zayn-vs-bronson-reed-for-the-intercontinental-title-appearances-by-womens-world-champion-becky-lynch-and-u-s-champio/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240430002408/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/04/29/wwe-raw-results-4-29-powells-live-review-of-the-wwe-draft-night-two-sami-zayn-vs-bronson-reed-for-the-intercontinental-title-appearances-by-womens-world-champion-becky-lynch-and-u-s-champio/ |archive-date=April 30, 2024 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} The following week, Zayn attacked Gable during his match with Reed, leading to a triple threat match at King and Queen of the Ring on May 25, where Zayn retained his title after pinning Reed.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=May 6, 2024 |title=WWE Raw results (5/6): Powell's live review of Gunther vs. Sheamus, Ricochet vs. Ilja Dragunov, Lyra Valkyria vs. Asuka, Iyo Sky vs. Natalya, and more King and Queen of the Ring matches |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/05/06/wwe-raw-results-5-6-powells-live-review-of-gunther-vs-sheamus-ricochet-vs-ilja-dragunov-lyra-valkyria-vs-asuka-iyo-sky-vs-natalya-and-more-king-and-queen-of-the-ring-matches/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240510084430/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/05/06/wwe-raw-results-5-6-powells-live-review-of-gunther-vs-sheamus-ricochet-vs-ilja-dragunov-lyra-valkyria-vs-asuka-iyo-sky-vs-natalya-and-more-king-and-queen-of-the-ring-matches/ |archive-date=May 10, 2024 |access-date=May 6, 2024 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=May 25, 2024 |title=WWE King and Queen of the Ring results: Powell's live review of Cody Rhodes vs. Logan Paul for the WWE Title, Gunther vs. Randy Orton in the KOTR finals, Nia Jax vs. Lyra Valkyria in the QOTR finals |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/05/25/wwe-king-and-queen-of-the-ring-results-powells-live-review-of-cody-rhodes-vs-logan-paul-for-the-wwe-title-gunther-vs-randy-orton-in-the-kotr-finals-nia-jax-vs-lyra-valkyria-in-the-qotr-finals/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240526103419/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/05/25/wwe-king-and-queen-of-the-ring-results-powells-live-review-of-cody-rhodes-vs-logan-paul-for-the-wwe-title-gunther-vs-randy-orton-in-the-kotr-finals-nia-jax-vs-lyra-valkyria-in-the-qotr-finals/ |archive-date=May 26, 2024 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} On June 15, at Clash at the Castle: Scotland, Zayn defeated Gable to retain the title, ending their feud.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=June 15, 2024 |title=WWE Clash at the Castle results: Powell's live review of Damian Priest vs. Drew McIntyre for the World Heavyweight Championship, Cody Rhodes vs. AJ Styles in an I Quit match for the WWE Championship |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/06/15/wwe-clash-at-the-castle-results-powells-live-review-of-damian-priest-vs-drew-mcintyre-for-the-world-heavyweight-championship-cody-rhodes-vs-aj-styles-in-an-i-quit-match-for-the-wwe-championship/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615214308/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/06/15/wwe-clash-at-the-castle-results-powells-live-review-of-damian-priest-vs-drew-mcintyre-for-the-world-heavyweight-championship-cody-rhodes-vs-aj-styles-in-an-i-quit-match-for-the-wwe-championship/ |archive-date=June 15, 2024 |access-date=June 15, 2024 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At Money in the Bank on July 6, Zayn successfully defended the title against Bron Breakker.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=July 6, 2024 |title=WWE Money in the Bank results: Powell's review of Damian Priest vs. Seth Rollins for the World Heavyweight Championship, two MITB ladder matches, Sami Zayn vs. Bron Breakker for the Intercontinental Title |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/07/06/wwe-money-in-the-bank-results-powells-review-of-damian-priest-vs-seth-rollins-for-the-world-heavyweight-championship-two-mitb-ladder-matches-sami-zayn-vs-bron-breakker-for-the-intercontinental/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240707003842/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/07/06/wwe-money-in-the-bank-results-powells-review-of-damian-priest-vs-seth-rollins-for-the-world-heavyweight-championship-two-mitb-ladder-matches-sami-zayn-vs-bron-breakker-for-the-intercontinental/ |archive-date=July 7, 2024 |access-date=July 6, 2024 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} On the July 15 episode of Raw, Zayn defended his title against Ilja Dragunov, but the match ended in a no contest after Breakker attacked both Dragunov and Zayn.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=July 15, 2024 |title=WWE Raw results (7/15): Powell's live review of Rhea Ripley's opening promo, Sami Zayn vs. Ilja Dragunov for the Intercontinental Title, Sheamus vs. Bronson Reed |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/07/15/wwe-raw-results-7-15-powells-live-review-of-rhea-ripleys-opening-promo-sami-zayn-vs-ilja-dragunov-for-the-intercontinental-title-sheamus-vs-bronson-reed/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240720170918/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/07/15/wwe-raw-results-7-15-powells-live-review-of-rhea-ripleys-opening-promo-sami-zayn-vs-ilja-dragunov-for-the-intercontinental-title-sheamus-vs-bronson-reed/ |archive-date=July 20, 2024 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At SummerSlam on August 3, Zayn lost the Intercontinental Championship to Breakker, ending his fourth reign at 119 days.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=August 3, 2024 |title=WWE SummerSlam results: Powell's review of Cody Rhodes vs. Solo Sikoa in a Bloodline Rules match for the WWE Championship, Damian Priest vs. Gunther for the World Heavyweight Championship |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/08/03/wwe-summerslam-results-powells-review-of-cody-rhodes-vs-solo-sikoa-in-a-bloodline-rules-match-for-the-wwe-championship-damian-priest-vs-gunther-for-the-world-heavyweight-championship/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241007112015/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/08/03/wwe-summerslam-results-powells-review-of-cody-rhodes-vs-solo-sikoa-in-a-bloodline-rules-match-for-the-wwe-championship-damian-priest-vs-gunther-for-the-world-heavyweight-championship/ |archive-date=October 7, 2024 |access-date=August 3, 2024 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} He failed to regain the title from Breakker in a two out of three falls match on the August 12 episode of Raw, ending their feud.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=August 12, 2024 |title=WWE Raw results (8/12): Powell's live review of Bron Breakker vs. Sami Zayn in a best of three falls match for the Intercontinental Title, Damage CTRL vs. Shayna Baszler and Zoey Stark for a shot at the WWE Women's Tag Titles |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/08/12/wwe-raw-results-8-12-powells-live-review-of-bron-breakker-vs-sami-zayn-in-a-best-of-three-falls-match-for-the-intercontinental-title-damage-ctrl-vs-shayna-baszler-and-zoey-stark-for-a-shot-at/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813043402/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/08/12/wwe-raw-results-8-12-powells-live-review-of-bron-breakker-vs-sami-zayn-in-a-best-of-three-falls-match-for-the-intercontinental-title-damage-ctrl-vs-shayna-baszler-and-zoey-stark-for-a-shot-at/ |archive-date=August 13, 2024 |access-date=August 13, 2024 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}

Zayn faced Gunther for the World Heavyweight Championship on the October 7 episode of Raw, but lost by technical submission after passing out to the rear-naked choke.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=October 7, 2024 |title=WWE Raw results (10/7): Powell’s live review of Gunther vs. Sami Zayn for the World Heavyweight Championship, Jey Uso vs. Xavier Woods for the Intercontinental Title |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/10/07/wwe-raw-results-10-7-powells-live-review-of-gunther-vs-sami-zayn-for-the-world-heavyweight-championship-jey-uso-vs-xavier-woods-for-the-intercontinental-title/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241008015830/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/10/07/wwe-raw-results-10-7-powells-live-review-of-gunther-vs-sami-zayn-for-the-world-heavyweight-championship-jey-uso-vs-xavier-woods-for-the-intercontinental-title/ |archive-date=October 8, 2024 |access-date=October 9, 2024 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At Crown Jewel on November 2, after Roman Reigns and The Usos lost to the new iteration of The Bloodline, consisting of Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa and Jacob Fatu, Zayn came to the aid of the Reigns-led Bloodline, but he accidentally kicked Reigns in the face while aiming for Sikoa.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=November 2, 2024 |title=WWE Crown Jewel results: Powell’s review of Gunther vs. Cody Rhodes for the Crown Jewel Championship, Nia Jax vs. Liv Morgan for the Women’s Crown Jewel Championship |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/11/02/wwe-crown-jewel-results-powells-review-of-gunther-vs-cody-rhodes-for-the-crown-jewel-championship-nia-jax-vs-liv-morgan-for-the-womens-crown-jewel-championship/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241109110404/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/11/02/wwe-crown-jewel-results-powells-review-of-gunther-vs-cody-rhodes-for-the-crown-jewel-championship-nia-jax-vs-liv-morgan-for-the-womens-crown-jewel-championship/ |archive-date=November 9, 2024 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At Survivor Series: WarGames on November 30, Zayn, Jey, Jimmy, Reigns and CM Punk defeated The Bloodline and Reed in a WarGames match.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=November 30, 2024 |title=WWE Survivor Series WarGames results: Powell's review of OG Bloodline and CM Punk vs. The Bloodline and Bronson Reed in a WarGames match, women's WarGames match, three title matches |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/11/30/wwe-survivor-series-wargames-results-powells-review-of-og-bloodline-and-cm-punk-vs-the-bloodline-and-bronson-reed-in-a-wargames-match-womens-wargames-match-three-title-matches/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241201192138/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/11/30/wwe-survivor-series-wargames-results-powells-review-of-og-bloodline-and-cm-punk-vs-the-bloodline-and-bronson-reed-in-a-wargames-match-womens-wargames-match-three-title-matches/ |archive-date=December 1, 2024 |access-date=November 30, 2024 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} On the December 2 episode of Raw, after losing to Rollins, who Zayn accused of attacking Jey backstage, he was attacked by the returning McIntyre,{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=December 2, 2024 |title=WWE Raw results (12/2): Powell’s live review of New Day’s ten-year celebration, CM Punk’s opening segment, Dakota Kai vs. Katana Chance vs. Shayna Baszler in a Women’s Intercontinental Title tournament match |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/12/02/wwe-raw-results-12-2-powells-live-review-of-new-days-ten-year-celebration-cm-punks-opening-segment-dakota-kai-vs-katana-chance-vs-shayna-baszler-in-a-womens-intercontinental-title-tourn/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203193520/https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/12/02/wwe-raw-results-12-2-powells-live-review-of-new-days-ten-year-celebration-cm-punks-opening-segment-dakota-kai-vs-katana-chance-vs-shayna-baszler-in-a-womens-intercontinental-title-tourn/ |archive-date=December 3, 2024 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} who defeated Zayn on December 14 at Saturday Night's Main Event.{{cite web |last=Beaston |first=Erik |date=December 14, 2024 |title=WWE Saturday Night's Main Event Results: Winners, Live Grades, Reaction, Highlights |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10147081-wwe-saturday-nights-main-event-results-winners-live-grades-reaction-highlights |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250108093614/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10147081-wwe-saturday-nights-main-event-results-winners-live-grades-reaction-highlights |archive-date=January 8, 2025 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=Bleacher Report}} At Royal Rumble on February 1, 2025, Zayn entered at number 27, but was eliminated by eventual winner Jey Uso.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=February 1, 2025 |title=WWE Royal Rumble results: Powell's live review of the Royal Rumble matches, Cody Rhodes vs. Kevin Owens in a ladder match for the WWE Title, DIY vs. MCMG in a best of three falls match for the WWE Tag Titles |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2025/02/01/wwe-royal-rumble-results-powells-live-review-of-the-royal-rumble-matches-cody-rhodes-vs-kevin-owens-in-a-ladder-match-for-the-wwe-title-diy-vs-mcmg-in-a-best-of-three-falls-match-for-the-wwe-ta/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250202094817/https://prowrestling.net/site/2025/02/01/wwe-royal-rumble-results-powells-live-review-of-the-royal-rumble-matches-cody-rhodes-vs-kevin-owens-in-a-ladder-match-for-the-wwe-title-diy-vs-mcmg-in-a-best-of-three-falls-match-for-the-wwe-ta/ |archive-date=February 2, 2025 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}

On the February 3 episode of Raw, after Zayn failed to qualify for the Elimination Chamber match against Punk, he was ambushed by Kevin Owens and hit with a package piledriver, reigniting a feud between the two once again.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=February 3, 2025 |title=WWE Raw results (2/3): Powell's live review of Royal Rumble winners Jey Uso and Charlotte Flair appear, CM Punk vs. Sami Zayn, and Iyo Sky vs. Liv Morgan in Elimination Chamber qualifying matches |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2025/02/03/wwe-raw-results-2-3-powells-live-review-of-royal-rumble-winners-jey-uso-and-charlotte-flair-appear-cm-punk-vs-sami-zayn-and-iyo-sky-vs-liv-morgan-in-elimination-chamber-qualifying-matches/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250204145843/https://prowrestling.net/site/2025/02/03/wwe-raw-results-2-3-powells-live-review-of-royal-rumble-winners-jey-uso-and-charlotte-flair-appear-cm-punk-vs-sami-zayn-and-iyo-sky-vs-liv-morgan-in-elimination-chamber-qualifying-matches/ |archive-date=February 4, 2025 |access-date=February 4, 2025 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} At Elimination Chamber: Toronto on March 1, he lost to Owens in a 5-star rated unsanctioned match.{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=March 1, 2025 |title=WWE Elimination Chamber results: Powell's live review of Cody Rhodes responding to The Rock's offer, two Elimination Chamber matches, Kevin Owens vs. Sami Zayn in an unsanctioned match |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2025/03/01/wwe-elimination-chamber-results-powells-live-review-of-cody-rhodes-responding-to-the-rocks-offer-two-elimination-chamber-matches-kevin-owens-vs-sami-zayn-in-an-unsanctioned-match/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250302152229/https://prowrestling.net/site/2025/03/01/wwe-elimination-chamber-results-powells-live-review-of-cody-rhodes-responding-to-the-rocks-offer-two-elimination-chamber-matches-kevin-owens-vs-sami-zayn-in-an-unsanctioned-match/ |archive-date=March 2, 2025 |access-date=March 1, 2025 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} After a brief hiatus, Zayn returned on the April 21 episode of Raw, congratulating Jey on his World Heavyweight Championship victory at WrestleMania 41.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=April 21, 2025 |title=WWE Raw results (4/21): Powell’s live review of the Raw after WrestleMania 41 |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2025/04/21/wwe-raw-results-4-21-powells-live-review-of-the-raw-after-wrestlemania-41/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250423021142/https://prowrestling.net/site/2025/04/21/wwe-raw-results-4-21-powells-live-review-of-the-raw-after-wrestlemania-41/ |archive-date=April 23, 2025 |access-date=April 26, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}

Zayn is a playable character in the video games WWE 2K15,{{cite web |author=Sirani |first=Jordan |date=October 24, 2014 |title=WWE 2K15 Who Got NXT Mode Announced and Detailed |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/10/24/wwe-2k15-who-got-nxt-mode-announced-and-detailed |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141026215046/https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/10/24/wwe-2k15-who-got-nxt-mode-announced-and-detailed |archive-date=October 26, 2014 |access-date=December 6, 2014 |website=IGN}} WWE 2K16,{{Cite web |date=August 10, 2015 |title=Superstars and Divas featured on WWE 2K16 roster list |url=https://www.wwe.com/inside/2k/wwe-2k16/wwe-2k16-roster-playable-characters-superstars-divas |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190321095326/https://www.wwe.com/inside/2k/wwe-2k16/wwe-2k16-roster-playable-characters-superstars-divas |archive-date=March 21, 2019 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |publisher=WWE}} WWE 2K17,{{Cite web |title=Photos: Find out who made the WWE 2K17 roster |url=https://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k17/gallery/wwe-2k17-roster-art-photos |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401063820/https://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k17/gallery/wwe-2k17-roster-art-photos |archive-date=April 1, 2019 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |publisher=WWE}} WWE 2K18,{{Cite web |last=Artus |first=Matthew |date=September 27, 2017 |title=WWE 2K18 roster: Meet the Superstars joining the list of playable characters |url=http://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k18/article/wwe-2k18-roster-playable-character-list |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107162419/http://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k18/article/wwe-2k18-roster-playable-character-list |archive-date=November 7, 2017 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |publisher=WWE}} WWE 2K19,{{cite web |last=Elfring |first=Mat |date=October 11, 2018 |title=WWE 2K19 Roster Full List: 200+ Confirmed Wrestlers & DLC Superstars |url=https://www.gamespot.com/gallery/wwe-2k19-roster-full-list-200-confirmed-wrestlers-/2900-2163/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181013014404/https://www.gamespot.com/gallery/wwe-2k19-roster-full-list-200-confirmed-wrestlers-/2900-2163/ |archive-date=October 13, 2018 |access-date=April 19, 2019 |website=GameSpot}} WWE 2K20,{{Cite web |last=Gartland |first=Dan |date=October 10, 2019 |title=Full 'WWE 2K20' Roster Revealed: See Every Wrestler Included in the Game |url=https://www.si.com/wrestling/2019/10/10/wwe-2k20-full-roster-list |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606162427/https://www.si.com/wrestling/2019/10/10/wwe-2k20-full-roster-list |archive-date=June 6, 2020 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |website=Sports Illustrated}} WWE 2K Battlegrounds,{{Cite web |last=Wilson |first=Ben |date=September 15, 2020 |title=WWE 2K Battlegrounds roster: 9 grapplers we can’t wait to use, plus the full roster list |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/wwe-2k-battlegrounds-roster/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221207044044/https://www.gamesradar.com/wwe-2k-battlegrounds-roster/ |archive-date=December 7, 2022 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |website=GamesRadar+}} WWE 2K22,{{Cite web |last=Wilson |first=Ben |date=May 6, 2022 |title=WWE 2K22 wrestlers list sorted by Raw, Smackdown, AEW and more |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/wwe-2k22-wrestlers/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220509233619/https://www.gamesradar.com/wwe-2k22-wrestlers/ |archive-date=May 9, 2022 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |website=GamesRadar+}} WWE 2K23,{{Cite web |last=Wilson |first=Ben |date=June 6, 2023 |title=WWE 2K23 roster reveal with every confirmed wrestler |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/wwe-2k23-roster/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230606132700/https://www.gamesradar.com/wwe-2k23-roster/ |archive-date=June 6, 2023 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |website=GamesRadar+}} WWE 2K24{{Cite web |title=WWE 2K24 Roster |url=https://wwe.2k.com/2k24/roster-list/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224165449/https://wwe.2k.com/2k24/roster-list/ |archive-date=February 24, 2024 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |website=WWE 2K}} and WWE 2K25, where he also stars as a cover athlete on the "Bloodline Edition".{{Cite web |title=WWE 2K25 Roster |url=https://wwe.2k.com/it-IT/2k25/roster/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250312181734/https://wwe.2k.com/it-IT/2k25/roster/ |archive-date=March 12, 2025 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |website=WWE 2K}}

Zayn hosts Sami Zayn And Friends, a live variety show featuring fellow Superstars and celebrities as guests.{{Cite web |date=June 17, 2024 |title="Sami Zayn & Friends Do Toronto" comedy show debuts Money in the Bank weekend |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/article/sami-zayn-and-friends-do-toronto-comedy-show |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240618234742/https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/article/sami-zayn-and-friends-do-toronto-comedy-show |archive-date=June 18, 2024 |access-date=April 25, 2025 |publisher=WWE}}

Sebei is known for being quiet about his private life.{{cite web |last=Soucek |first=Andrew |date=December 26, 2018 |title=Recap and Review: Talk is Jericho with Sami Zayn on letting go of his ego, thoughts on social media, the perspective he's gained on his career since being injured, conversations with Neville, "sometimes" being a jerk to fans |url=https://www.pwpodcasts.com/2018/12/26/recap-and-review-talk-is-jericho-with-sami-zayn-on-letting-go-of-his-ego-thoughts-on-social-media-the-perspective-hes-gained-on-his-career-since-being-injured-conversations-with-neville-somet/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190320213239/https://www.pwpodcasts.com/2018/12/26/recap-and-review-talk-is-jericho-with-sami-zayn-on-letting-go-of-his-ego-thoughts-on-social-media-the-perspective-hes-gained-on-his-career-since-being-injured-conversations-with-neville-somet/ |archive-date=March 20, 2019 |access-date=April 19, 2019 |work=PWPodcasts.com}} He is a devout Sunni Muslim,{{cite news |last1=Markazi |first1=Arash |date=February 7, 2017 |title=Through wrestling, Sami Zayn works against the demonization of Muslims |url=https://www.espn.in/wwe/story/_/id/18640018/rami-sebei-portrays-wwe-superstar-sami-zayn-works-demonization-muslims-wrestling |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170621202024/https://www.espn.in/wwe/story/_/id/18640018/rami-sebei-portrays-wwe-superstar-sami-zayn-works-demonization-muslims-wrestling |archive-date=June 21, 2017 |access-date=December 9, 2023 |work=ESPN}} and in 2023 during WWE's trip to Saudi Arabia for Night of Champions, he completed an Umrah.{{cite web |last=DeFelice |first=Robert |date=May 25, 2023 |title=Sami Zayn Makes Pilgrimage To Mecca, Shawn Michaels On NXT Battleground In Lowell, More |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/sami-zayn-makes-pilgrimage-mecca-shawn-michaels-nxt-battleground-lowell-more-fight-size |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230610180800/https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/sami-zayn-makes-pilgrimage-mecca-shawn-michaels-nxt-battleground-lowell-more-fight-size |archive-date=June 10, 2023 |access-date=May 26, 2023 |website=Fightful.com}} Sebei had previously avoided participating in WWE's events in Saudi Arabia in light of the country's strained relations with Syria.{{cite news |last1=Johnson |first1=Mike |last2=Jordan |first2=Paul |date=April 27, 2018 |title=Vince thanks Saudi Arabia, backstage notes and more from Greatest Royal Rumble |url=https://pwinsider.com/article/117141/vince-thanks-saudi-arabia-backstage-notes-and-more-from-greatest-royal-rumble.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180502005352/https://pwinsider.com/article/117141/vince-thanks-saudi-arabia-backstage-notes-and-more-from-greatest-royal-rumble.html |archive-date=May 2, 2018 |access-date=December 9, 2023 |work=Pro Wrestling Insider}}

Sebei is married to Khadija and has a son also named Rami.{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=February 18, 2023 |title=Sami Zayn’s wife comments on his success and WWE Elimination Chamber |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/02/18/sami-zayns-wife-comments-on-his-success-and-wwe-elimination-chamber/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230225220404/https://prowrestling.net/site/2023/02/18/sami-zayns-wife-comments-on-his-success-and-wwe-elimination-chamber/ |archive-date=February 25, 2023 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}{{cite podcast |url=https://audioboom.com/posts/7343550-ep-140-let-s-get-loud-w-sami-zayn |title=EP 140 Let's Get Loud (w/ Sami Zayn) |website=Regular Girls |publisher=AudioBoom |host= |date=August 16, 2019 |access-date=September 29, 2020 |last=Young |first=Renee |last2=McGunnigle |first2=Stacey}}{{cite web |last=Morgan |first=Nick |date=September 26, 2020 |title=9/26 WWE TALKING SMACK REVIEW: Styles and Joseph Parks, Lucha House Party, and Bayley talk Clash of Champions with hosts Xavier and Braxton |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2020/09/26/9-26-wwe-talking-smack-review-styles-and-joseph-parks-lucha-house-party-and-bayley-talk-clash-of-champions-with-hosts-xavier-and-braxton/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028061112/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2020/09/26/9-26-wwe-talking-smack-review-styles-and-joseph-parks-lucha-house-party-and-bayley-talk-clash-of-champions-with-hosts-xavier-and-braxton/ |archive-date=October 28, 2020 |access-date=September 29, 2020 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}} He is a vegan,{{cite web |last=McGeorge |first=Alistair |date=October 13, 2020 |title=WWE's Sami Zayn gives Great British Bake Off predictions and eyes up celebrity spin-off |url=https://metro.co.uk/2020/10/13/wwe-sami-zayn-great-british-bake-off-predictions-celebrity-spin-off-13417063/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228153013/https://metro.co.uk/2020/10/13/wwe-sami-zayn-great-british-bake-off-predictions-celebrity-spin-off-13417063/ |archive-date=February 28, 2021 |access-date=October 15, 2020 |website=Metro.co.uk}} and is fluent in English, Arabic, and French.{{cite news |last1=Burgett |first1=Joe |date=October 23, 2014 |title=WWE News: Big News Regarding NXT Star Sami Zayn And A Main Roster Debut |url=https://www.inquisitr.com/1558093/wwe-news-big-news-regarding-nxt-star-sami-zayn-and-a-main-roster-debut |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141025193057/https://www.inquisitr.com/1558093/wwe-news-big-news-regarding-nxt-star-sami-zayn-and-a-main-roster-debut |archive-date=October 25, 2014 |access-date=December 9, 2023 |work=Inquisitr |language=en |quote=Zayn was in Canada this past week in Montreal. Montreal happens to be his hometown, which is one reason he is fluent in both French and English.}} Sebei is close friends with fellow professional wrestler Kevin Steen, better known in WWE as Kevin Owens, with whom he has teamed up and feuded with throughout his career.{{Cite web |last=Phelan |first=Chris |date=August 31, 2023 |title=Good Friends, Better Enemies: Examining the Bond Between Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn |url=https://www.usanetwork.com/usa-insider/wwe-superstars-kevin-owens-sami-zayns-explained |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250108000900/https://www.usanetwork.com/usa-insider/wwe-superstars-kevin-owens-sami-zayns-explained |archive-date=January 8, 2025 |access-date=April 25, 2025 |website=USA Network}}

In July 2017, Sebei set up a fund called Sami for Syria to support the Syrian American Medical Society.{{cite magazine |last1=Greene |first1=Dan |date=September 9, 2017 |title=Q&A: Sami Zayn discusses his fundraiser for Syria |url=https://www.si.com/extra-mustard/2017/09/09/sami-zayn-syria-fundraiser |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112042348/https://www.si.com/extra-mustard/2017/09/09/sami-zayn-syria-fundraiser |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |access-date=December 9, 2023 |magazine=Sports Illustrated}}

File:El Generico Rey de Voladores.jpg Rey de Voladores win in April 2011]]

File:Kevin owens and sami zayn as undisputed champions.jpg and SmackDown Tag Team Champion, along with his tag team partner Kevin Owens (left); with both titles together, they were recognized as the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions]]

• Association de Lutte Féminine
• Sensational Sherri Memorial Cup Tournament (2007) – with LuFisto{{cite web |last=Kreikenbohm |first=Philip |date= |title=Sensational Sherri Memorial Cup Tournament (2007) |url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=26&nr=3449 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241201172353/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=26&nr=3449 |archive-date=December 1, 2024 |access-date=November 25, 2020 |website=Cagematch.net}}
• The Baltimore Sun
• WWE Match of the Year (2016) {{small|vs. Shinsuke Nakamura at NXT TakeOver: Dallas}}{{cite web |last=Oster |first=Aaron |date=December 31, 2016 |title=WWE 2016 end-of-year awards |url=https://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/bal-wwe-2016-end-of-year-awards-20161231-story.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210615224900/https://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/bal-wwe-2016-end-of-year-awards-20161231-story.html |archive-date=June 15, 2021 |access-date=September 26, 2020 |work=The Baltimore Sun}}
• Britannia Wrestling Promotions
• PWI:BWP World Catchweight Championship (1 time){{cite web |last=Kreikenbohm |first=Philip |date= |title=PWI:BWP World Catchweight Championship |url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=1804 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250428085521/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=1804 |archive-date=April 28, 2025 |access-date=November 25, 2020 |website=Cagematch.net}}
• Chikara
• Rey de Voladores (2011)
• DDT Pro-Wrestling / Union Pro Wrestling
• DDT Extreme Championship (1 time)
• KO-D Openweight Championship (1 time)
• Best Foreigner Award (2012){{cite web|url=http://www.ddtpro.com/report/ddt/article/1356015675/|title=<ヨシヒコ編集ジチョー主義>2012年DDTを各賞で振り返る|date=December 21, 2012|access-date=December 22, 2012|work=DDT Pro-Wrestling|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130110185602/http://www.ddtpro.com/report/ddt/article/1356015675/|archive-date=January 10, 2013}}
• Elite Wrestling Revolution
• Elite 8 Tournament (2004){{cite web |last=Kreikenbohm |first=Philip |date= |title=Elite 8 Tournament (2004) |url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=26&nr=3392 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203230407/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=26&nr=3392 |archive-date=December 3, 2024 |access-date=November 25, 2020 |website=Cagematch.net}}
• ESPN
• Best storyline of the year (2022) – {{small|part of The Bloodline}}{{cite web |date=December 28, 2022 |title=Pro Wrestling 2022 awards: The best male and female wrestler, feud, faction, promo and more |url=https://www.espn.com/wwe/story/_/id/35329583/pro-wrestling-2022-awards-best-male-female-wrestler-feud-faction-promo-more |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230124093623/https://www.espn.com/wwe/story/_/id/35329583/pro-wrestling-2022-awards-best-male-female-wrestler-feud-faction-promo-more |archive-date=January 24, 2023 |access-date=December 31, 2022 |work=ESPN}}
• International Wrestling Syndicate
• IWS World Heavyweight Championship (2 times){{cite web|url=http://www.iwswrestling.com/roster.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111008094246/http://www.iwswrestling.com/roster.html|title=International Wrestling Syndicate Roster|archive-date=October 8, 2011|access-date=November 30, 2009|publisher=International Wrestling Syndicate|url-status=dead}}
• IWS World Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Twiggy
• Monteregie Wrestling Federation
• MWF Provincial Championship (1 time){{cite web |last=Kreikenbohm |first=Philip |date= |title=MWF Provincial Championship |url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=3032 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231212090527/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=3032 |archive-date=December 12, 2023 |access-date=November 25, 2020 |website=Cagematch.net}}
• New York Post
• Storyline of the Year (2022) {{small|part of The Bloodline}}{{cite web|url=https://nypost.com/2022/12/27/the-posts-2022-pro-wrestling-awards/|title=The Post's 2022 pro wrestling awards|work=New York Post|first=Joseph|last=Staszewski|date=December 27, 2022|accessdate=December 30, 2022|archive-date=December 29, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221229231432/https://nypost.com/2022/12/27/the-posts-2022-pro-wrestling-awards/|url-status=live}}
• North Shore Pro Wrestling
• NSPW Championship (1 time){{cite web |last=Kreikenbohm |first=Philip |date= |title=NSPW Championship |url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=1389 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250312155743/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=1389 |archive-date=March 12, 2025 |access-date=November 25, 2020 |website=Cagematch.net}}
• Pro Wrestling Guerrilla
• PWG World Championship (2 times){{cite web |last=Westcott |first=Brian |title=PWG Heavyweight Title history |url=http://www.solie.org/titlehistories/htpwg.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090602055409/http://www.solie.org/titlehistories/htpwg.html |archive-date=June 2, 2009 |access-date=July 27, 2008 |website=Solie.org}}
• PWG World Tag Team Championship (5 times) – with Human Tornado (1), Quicksilver (1), Kevin Steen (2), and Paul London (1){{cite web |last=Westcott |first=Brian |title=PWG Tag Title history |url=http://www.solie.org/titlehistories/ttpwg.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080329034154/https://www.solie.org/titlehistories/ttpwg.html |archive-date=March 29, 2008 |access-date=March 2, 2018 |website=Solie.org}}
• Battle of Los Angeles (2011)
• Dynamite Duumvirate Tag Team Title Tournament (2010) – with Paul London
• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
• Faction of the Year (2022) – {{small|The Bloodline}}
• Feud of the Year (2023) {{small|vs. The Bloodline}}
• Ranked No. 12 of the top 500 singles wrestlers in the PWI 500 in 2024{{cite web |title=Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 for 2024 |url=http://www.profightdb.com/pwi-500/2024.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250221103148/http://www.profightdb.com/pwi-500/2024.html |archive-date=February 21, 2025 |access-date=September 23, 2024 |work=The Internet Wrestling Database}}
• Puerto Rico Wrestling Association
• PRWA Caribbean Championship (1 time){{cite web |date=November 1, 2011 |title=El Genérico Nuevo Campeón del Caribe de la PRWA |trans-title=The Generic New PRWA Caribbean Champion |url=https://superluchas.com/el-generico-nuevo-campeon-del-caribe-de-la-prwa%e2%80%8f/ |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250502084007/https://superluchas.com/el-generico-nuevo-campeon-del-caribe-de-la-prwa%E2%80%8F/ |archive-date=May 2, 2025 |access-date=November 1, 2011 |work=Súper Luchas |language=es}}
• Ring of Honor
• ROH World Television Championship (1 time)
• ROH World Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Kevin Steen{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/wrestlers/champions|title=Ring Of Honor Tag Team Championship|access-date=September 21, 2013|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-date=September 27, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927173812/http://www.rohwrestling.com/wrestlers/champions|url-status=dead}}
• Match of the Decade (2010s) {{small|vs. Kevin Steen at Final Battle 2012: Doomsday}}{{cite web |date=January 23, 2020 |title=Match of The Decade: Kevin Steen vs. El Generico Ladder War |url=https://www.rohwrestling.com/news/match-decade-kevin-steen-vs-el-generico-ladder-war |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200314183727/https://www.rohwrestling.com/news/match-decade-kevin-steen-vs-el-generico-ladder-war |archive-date=March 14, 2020 |access-date=August 7, 2021 |work= |publisher=Ring of Honor}}
• SoCal Uncensored
• Match of the Year (2006) vs. PAC, November 18, Pro Wrestling Guerrilla{{cite web |title=SoCal UNCENSORED Awards 2006 |url=http://www.socaluncensored.com/titles/awards/scu06.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100901004642/http://www.socaluncensored.com/titles/awards/scu06.htm |archive-date=September 1, 2010 |access-date=April 9, 2010 |work=SoCalUncensored.com}}
• Match of the Year (2007) vs. Bryan Danielson, July 29, Pro Wrestling Guerrilla{{Cite web |title=Southern California Match of the Year |url=https://socaluncensored.com/history/year-end-awards/southern-california-match-of-the-year/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160829004238/https://socaluncensored.com/history/year-end-awards/southern-california-match-of-the-year/ |archive-date=August 29, 2016 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |website=SoCalUncensored.com}}
• Most Outstanding Wrestler (2006, 2007)
• Tag Team of the Year (2006) with Quicksilver
• Wrestler of the Year (2007){{Cite web |title=Southern California Wrestler of the Year |url=https://socaluncensored.com/history/year-end-awards/southern-california-wrestler-of-the-year/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160829004000/https://socaluncensored.com/history/year-end-awards/southern-california-wrestler-of-the-year/ |archive-date=August 29, 2016 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |website=SoCalUncensored.com}}
• STHLM Wrestling
• STHLM Wrestling Championship (1 time){{cite web |last=Kreikenbohm |first=Philip |date= |title=STHLM Wrestling Championship |url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=2268 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241004110620/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=2268 |archive-date=October 4, 2024 |access-date=November 25, 2020 |website=Cagematch.net}}
• Westside Xtreme Wrestling
• wXw Unified World Wrestling Championship (1 time){{cite web|url=http://www.wxw-wrestling.com/index2.php?content=backstage|title=Title history|work=Westside Xtreme Wrestling|access-date=May 19, 2012|language=de|archive-date=February 9, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120209173543/http://www.wxw-wrestling.com/index2.php?content=backstage|url-status=dead}}
• 16 Carat Gold Tournament (2012){{cite web |last=Meltzer |first=Dave |author-link=Dave Meltzer |date=March 4, 2012 |title=Sun update: Furnas funeral, Zuffa embarrassed by Nazi rapist, Smackdown change, Raw ticket sales |url=http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/118-daily-updates/24555-sun-update-furnas-funeral-zuffa-embarrassed-by-nazi-rapist-smackdown-change-raw-ticket-sales |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120422142500/http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/118-daily-updates/24555-sun-update-furnas-funeral-zuffa-embarrassed-by-nazi-rapist-smackdown-change-raw-ticket-sales |archive-date=April 22, 2012 |access-date=March 5, 2012 |work=Wrestling Observer Newsletter |publication-place=Campbell, California |issn=1083-9593}}
• Wrestling Observer Newsletter
• Feud of the Year (2010) {{small|vs. Kevin Steen}}{{cite journal |last=Meltzer |first=Dave |author-link=Dave Meltzer |date=January 26, 2011 |title=Biggest issue of the year: The 2011 Wrestling Observer Newsletter Awards Issue |journal= |location=Campbell, California |pages=1–40 |issn=1083-9593 |periodical=Wrestling Observer Newsletter}}
• Feud of the Year (2023) {{small|with Kevin Owens vs. The Bloodline}}{{Cite journal |last=Meltzer |first=Dave |author-link=Dave Meltzer |date=February 23, 2024 |title=February 26, 2024 Observer Newsletter: 2023 Observer Awards issue |journal=Wrestling Observer Newsletter |location=Campbell, California |issn=1083-9593}}
• Shad Gaspard/Jon Huber Memorial Award (2020){{Cite journal |last=Meltzer |first=Dave |author-link=Dave Meltzer |date=March 12, 2021 |title=March 15, 2021 Observer Newsletter: AEW Revolution, WrestleMania 37 ticket details |journal=Wrestling Observer Newsletter |location=Campbell, California |issn=1083-9593}}
• Best Gimmick (2022){{Cite journal |last=Meltzer |first=Dave |author-link=Dave Meltzer |date=February 24, 2023 |title=February 2023 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Results of the 2022 Wrestling Observer Newsletter Awards |journal=Wrestling Observer Newsletter |location=Campbell, California |issn=1083-9593}}
• WWE
• NXT Championship (1 time){{cite web |title=NXT Championship |url=https://www.wwe.com/titlehistory/nxt-championship |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308225742/https://www.wwe.com/titlehistory/nxt-championship |archive-date=March 8, 2021 |access-date=February 27, 2020 |publisher=WWE}}
• WWE Intercontinental Championship (4 times){{cite web |title=Intercontinental Championship |url=https://www.wwe.com/titlehistory/intercontinental-championship |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250101180019/https://www.wwe.com/titlehistory/intercontinental-championship |archive-date=January 1, 2025 |access-date=February 27, 2020 |publisher=WWE}}
• WWE Raw Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Kevin Owens{{cite web |title=Raw Tag Team Championship |url=https://www.wwe.com/titlehistory/raw-tag-team-championship |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250101180458/https://www.wwe.com/titlehistory/raw-tag-team-championship |archive-date=January 1, 2025 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |publisher=WWE}}
• WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Kevin Owens{{cite web |title=SmackDown Tag Team Championship |url=https://www.wwe.com/titlehistory/smackdown-tag-team-championship |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411110235/https://www.wwe.com/titlehistory/smackdown-tag-team-championship |archive-date=April 11, 2024 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |publisher=WWE}}
• Slammy Award (2 times){{cite web |date=February 23, 2008 |title=What is a Slammy? |url=https://www.wwe.com/inside/news/whatsaslammy |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301165110/https://www.wwe.com/inside/news/whatsaslammy |archive-date=March 1, 2023 |access-date=April 17, 2016 |publisher=WWE}}
• NXT Superstar of the Year (2014){{cite web |last=Martin |first=Adam |date=December 8, 2014 |title=Early 2014 WWE Slammy Award winners announced |url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/52052-early-2014-wwe-slammy-award-winners-announced/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250407211649/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/52052-early-2014-wwe-slammy-award-winners-announced/ |archive-date=April 7, 2025 |access-date=December 9, 2014 |website=WrestleView}}
• Faction of the Year (2025) {{small|with Roman Reigns, Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso as The OG Bloodline}}{{Cite web |last=Carey |first=Ian |date=April 20, 2025 |title=WWE announces 2025 Slammy Award winners |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/wwe-announces-2025-slammy-award-winners/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250420221808/https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/wwe-announces-2025-slammy-award-winners/ |archive-date=April 20, 2025 |access-date=May 2, 2025 |website=Wrestling Observer Newsletter}}

{{see also|Lucha libre#Luchas de apuestas|l1=Luchas de Apuestas}}

{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}

{{Commons category|Sami Zayn}}

• {{wwe superstar}}
• {{Chikara profile|el-generico|name = El Generico}}
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• {{IMDb name|nm2015063|Rami Sebei}}

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