Nikki Bella at 40: How Motherhood and Divorce Shaped Her Comeback Story

At 40, Nikki Bella is making headlines once more as she returns to the WWE ring with renewed purpose. More than just a nostalgic comeback, Bella's return marks a new chapter defined by motherhood, personal growth and hard-earned resilience following her divorce.

Life After Wrestling: From Superstar to Full-Time Mum

Following her initial departure from WWE, Bella stepped back from the ring to focus on life outside of wrestling. She embraced motherhood in 2020 with the birth of her son, Matteo, while also exploring ventures in entertainment and business. Alongside her twin sister Brie, she launched a podcast, expanded the Bella brand, and continued to engage fans through social media and reality television.

During this period, Bella's role evolved from in-ring performer to full-time mother, media personality and entrepreneur. Yet, fans always wondered if she would ever return to the squared circle, and in 2025, she answered that question with confidence.

Divorce and Personal Reinvention

In late 2024, Bella finalised her divorce from Artem Chigvintsev, her husband of three years. The settlement included joint custody of Matteo and a monthly child support agreement of $3,500, as well as a one-time payment to Chigvintsev.

Despite the emotional challenges, Bella remained composed throughout the legal process. The divorce also coincided with a surprising public reunion with her former fiancé, John Cena, at the 2025 Royal Rumble. The brief exchange was described as respectful, with Bella later reflecting on it as a moment of personal closure.

Her return to WWE appears to be the product of that growth, a personal and professional reinvention shaped by lessons from both motherhood and marriage.

Balancing Motherhood and a Wrestling Comeback

As Nikki Bella prepared for her in-ring return, she trained at the WWE Performance Center while raising her son. In interviews, she has been open about the physical and emotional demands of balancing motherhood with the intensity of a wrestling comeback.

Bella has described WWE as her 'happy place', but acknowledges that returning as a mother has changed her mindset. She credits Matteo for inspiring her strength and motivation, and she views this phase of her career not as a comeback but as a continuation of her evolution.

The Evolution 2 Battle Royal and Future Plans

On 9 July's episode of WWE Raw, Bella confirmed her participation in the Evolution 2 Battle Royal, scheduled for 13 July in Atlanta, as reported by Wrestling Inc. The winner of the event will earn a title shot at Clash in Paris on 31 August. Bella's confrontation with Liv Morgan has already set the stage for a high-profile rivalry, and speculation continues to grow about a possible Bella Twins reunion later this year.

Far from a farewell, Bella's return signals a strategic re-entry into the women's division. Her fans are eager to see if she can climb back into title contention, this time with age, experience and motherhood on her side.

Redefining Strength at 40

At 40, Nikki Bella's age is not a limitation but a testament to her resilience. Her story resonates with fans who see her not just as a former champion but as a symbol of growth, strength and perseverance. With her divorce behind her and her son as her inspiration, Bella is proving that a second act can be just as powerful as the first.