Nikki Garcia is doing the hard work of healing, and she’s not rushing back to date, anytime soon.
The former WWE superstar, known to millions as Nikki Bella, opened up on The Nikki and Brie Show about how she’s been navigating life post-divorce from Dancing With The Stars pro Artem Chigvintsev. The two officially split in November 2024, just months after Artem’s high-profile domestic violence arrest. Though no charges were filed, the aftermath clearly shook both of them.
“I went on some dates,” Nikki admitted. “Not ready for it yet. But I put myself out there.”
It wasn’t just about finding someone new. Nikki said she’s been pushing herself in all areas, whether that’s packing her schedule with events, showing up to more business engagements, or just getting out of the house. Still, she realized that dating simply isn’t on the menu right now.
“I went and had some drinks and had conversations,” she continued. “And I realized that’s not what I want to do right now. At least not date-wise.”
Her sister Brie, co-host and fellow WWE icon, said she was “happy” Nikki tried. But Nikki made it clear: forcing a rebound relationship wasn’t the answer. “I just wanted to get my feet a little wet,” she said, “and I realized I’m not ready for this.”
Nikki and Artem’s story started with sparks. They met on Dancing With The Stars, got engaged in 2019, and welcomed their son Matteo in 2020. But things started to unravel in private, until Artem’s August 2024 arrest brought everything into public view.
Now, Artem is telling his side. Speaking on The Glamourous Grind podcast, the 42-year-old dancer said the situation “completely ruined everything” for him, even though the charges were dropped.
“The district attorney clearly stated there was nothing they could possibly have charged me on,” he said. “But when people see that mugshot, you’re guilty in their minds. There’s nothing you can say to change it.”
He also revealed he had no second thoughts about ending the marriage. “I wanted it to be over,” he said. “I need to move on, emotionally, financially. I just wanted my life to be normal again.”
For Nikki Garcia, the focus now isn’t dating, it’s reclaiming her life, on her own terms. Whether she’s traveling, hustling in business, or just spending time with her son, she’s staying grounded in what feels right.
And dating? That can wait.
