Updated: November 30, 2025
Hey there, wrestling fans and reality TV junkies—have you ever wondered how a fairy-tale romance between a WWE powerhouse and a Dancing with the Stars pro could unravel so dramatically? Nikki Bella, the fierce half of the Bella Twins, has been making headlines for years, but her marriage to ex-husband Artem Chigvintsev? That’s a rollercoaster worth unpacking. From their sizzling on-screen chemistry to the shocking domestic drama and a multimillion-dollar settlement, this is the real scoop on Nikki Bella’s ex-husband. If you’re searching for “Nikki Bella ex husband details” or just love a good celebrity tell-all, stick around. We’ve got the timeline, the twists, and why Nikki’s stronger than ever post-divorce.
Table of Contents
How Nikki Bella Met Her Ex-Husband: Sparks on the Dance Floor
Picture this: It’s 2017, and Nikki Bella—fresh off WWE glory and nursing a high-profile breakup—is paired with Artem Chigvintsev on Dancing with the Stars season 25. Artem, the brooding Russian dancer with chiseled moves and a mysterious vibe, was already a pro on the show. Their partnership? Electric. Fans shipped them hard, even though Nikki was still with John Cena at the time.
Fast forward to 2018: Nikki and Cena call off their engagement, and boom—Nikki and Artem start dating quietly. It was like destiny scripted by a rom-com writer. They bonded over fitness, family values, and that shared spotlight life. By early 2020, Artem popped the question during a romantic Napa Valley getaway. Nikki said yes, and just months later, on August 8, 2020, their son Matteo arrived, weighing in at a healthy 7 lbs. The couple tied the knot in a dreamy ceremony at Travis Mansion in Napa on November 26, 2021—surrounded by WWE stars, DWTS pals, and their little bundle of joy.
It felt perfect, right? But as Nikki later shared on The Nikki & Brie Show, the glamour hid deeper cracks. “We had our moments of magic,” she reflected in a 2024 episode, “but love isn’t just dances and proposals—it’s the everyday grind.”
The Shocking Split: Domestic Drama and Divorce Filing
If there’s one chapter that hit like a WWE smackdown, it’s the end of Nikki and Artem’s marriage. On August 26, 2024—just days after celebrating their second anniversary—things imploded. Artem was arrested in Napa County for suspected corporal injury to a spouse, stemming from an alleged altercation at home. Reports painted a tense scene: arguments escalating, with Matteo present. Nikki quickly filed for a temporary domestic violence restraining order, citing in court docs that Artem had “tackled me multiple times and pinned me to the ground.”
Artem fired back, securing his own restraining order and claiming scratches from Nikki. Oof—the mutual accusations flew faster than a high-flying dropkick. But here’s the twist: By September 25, 2024, prosecutors dropped charges against Artem after their investigation. Still, the damage was done. On September 11, 2024, Nikki filed for divorce in Napa Superior Court, citing irreconcilable differences and seeking full custody of 4-year-old Matteo.
The headlines exploded: “Nikki Bella Divorce Bombshell!” Fans were gutted. In her first post-filing podcast, Nikki got raw: “I didn’t want another failed public relationship… but I have to protect my son and myself.” It was a far cry from the couple’s Total Bellas glow-ups. As of late 2025, the dust has settled, but that August arrest remains the pivot point in their story.
Divorce Settlement Details: A Costly Goodbye
Divorces in Hollywood? They’re never cheap, and Nikki’s was no exception. After months of private mediation, the couple finalized terms in November 2024—dodging a messy courtroom battle. Both dropped their restraining orders to focus on co-parenting, a move Nikki’s rep called “essential for Matteo’s well-being.”
But the numbers? They made waves. In May 2025, details leaked via TMZ, revealing Nikki footing a hefty bill despite being the higher earner. She shelled out $200,000 in spousal support—split into two $100,000 lump sums—and committed to $3,500 monthly child support. The exes alternate major holidays with Matteo and split extracurricular costs. Nikki kept her empire intact, including Bonita Bonita wines (co-owned with sister Brie) and Stephanie Nicole Garcia Entertainment.
To break it down simply, here’s a quick table of the key settlement info:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Spousal Support | $200,000 total ($100K immediate + $100K by end of 2025) |
| Child Support | $3,500 per month for Matteo’s care |
| Custody | Joint; alternating major holidays, shared extracurricular expenses |
| Assets Retained | Nikki keeps Bonita Bonita winery and entertainment company |
| Finalized Date | November 2024 (public details leaked May 2025) |
Nikki addressed the payout on her podcast, calling it “a steal” in hindsight. “I learned my lesson—no prenup next time,” she laughed, half-joking. It’s a reminder: Even superstars pay for closure.
Life After Artem: Nikki’s Empowering Comeback
Post-divorce, Nikki’s not just surviving—she’s thriving, y’all. At 42, she’s dipping her toes back into dating, dropping “thirst traps” on Instagram that have fans swooning. “I need attention!” she quipped in a November 2025 interview, owning her glow-up with confidence.
- Podcast Powerhouse: Reunited with Brie on The Nikki & Brie Show, episodes dive deep into healing, motherhood, and unfiltered advice. Listeners love her vulnerability about therapy and co-parenting wins.
- Business Boss: Bonita Bonita wines are booming, with new rosé drops selling out. Plus, her entertainment ventures? Expanding into wellness apps and WWE cameos.
- Mom Mode Activated: Matteo’s her North Star. “Healing him is my focus,” she shared. Sightings of the duo at Napa parks or family brunches show her prioritizing joy.
- WWE Tease?: Rumors swirl of a Bella Twins return—Nikki’s coy, but that fire? It’s still lit.
She’s all about growth now, turning pain into purpose. As she told People in January 2025, “This chapter closed, but my story’s just heating up.”
Conclusion: Nikki Bella’s Ex-Husband Saga—A Lesson in Resilience
Whew, what a ride—from dance-floor flirtation to divorce decree, Nikki Bella’s ex-husband Artem Chigvintsev story is equal parts heartbreaking and inspiring. It’s a stark reminder that even icons face messy breakups, legal battles, and fresh starts. Through it all, Nikki’s emerged unbreakable, channeling her energy into Matteo, her brands, and that signature Bella sparkle.
If this tale of Nikki Bella’s ex-husband has you reflecting on love’s wild turns, drop a comment below—what’s your take? Hit subscribe for more celeb deep dives, and remember: In the ring of life, it’s not about the fall—it’s the comeback. Stay fierce!