Nikki Garcia (previously known as Nikki Bella) is making a strong comeback! The ex-WWE star made a stunning return to the red carpet in a striking all-red ensemble, marking her first appearance since finalizing her divorce from Artem Chigvintsev.
At 41, Nikki dazzled in a red leather strapless corset, complemented by matching pants and stiletto heels, while celebrating the premiere of WWE’s Monday Night Raw on Netflix on Monday, January 6. This appearance at a professional wrestling event comes two years after she and her twin sister, Brie Garcia, parted ways with WWE.
Her red carpet arrival occurred two months after she and Artem, 42, concluded their divorce on November 20, 2024, following a domestic violence incident. “Both parties have chosen to drop the domestic violence restraining orders against each other to move on and effectively co-parent their son,” Nikki’s representative informed People at the time. “Nikki’s top priority has always been her son and maintaining privacy in this matter. She appreciates all the love and support she's received during this challenging period.”
The professional dancer was apprehended on domestic violence charges on August 29, 2024, after an altercation with Nikki. He was released later that day after posting a $25,000 bail. Following an investigation, Napa County District Attorney's Office ultimately dismissed the charges on September 24, 2024.
“I am immensely relieved and thankful that the domestic violence charges against me have been dismissed,” Artem stated to E! News on September 25, 2024. “This has been an incredibly tough time for me. I am grateful that the truth has come to light.”
GettyAlthough Artem faced no legal consequences, their marriage ended when Nikki filed for divorce on September 11, 2024, listing August 29, 2024, as their official separation date.
The former ABC star countered Nikki's divorce filing with his own on September 13, 2024. Despite the end of their marriage, Artem and Nikki are committed to creating a nurturing environment for their son, Matteo.
"The parties are focused on co-parenting and collaborating for the well-being of their son," Artem’s lawyer, Ilona Antonyan, informed People on September 17, 2024.
Further developments ensued as Life & Style reported on September 30, 2024, that Nikki had sought a restraining order against Artem, alleging in her sworn declaration that he “tackled me multiple times and pinned me to the ground while our child was present.” The restraining order was granted, leading Artem to subsequently request a similar order against Nikki. A representative for Nikki communicated to Us Weekly on October 4, 2024.
“Following the incident resulting in Artem’s arrest on August 29, 2024, Nikki has chosen to seek a temporary Domestic Violence Restraining Order to ensure her and her son’s safety,” the representative stated. “Nikki asked the Napa District Attorney not to press charges against Artem as she did not want him incarcerated, but he still needs to be accountable for his conduct, and Nikki and her son require protection.”
Two months later, both domestic violence restraining orders were dismissed.