Nikki Bella Explains Why She Thinks People Viewed Her As A ‘Villain’ Amid Her Divorce From Artem Chigvintsev
Nikki Garcia, also known as one of the WWE’s Bella twins, hasn’t spoken much since her separation last year from professional dancer Artem Chigvintsev from “Dancing with the Stars.” Last August, Chigvintsev was arrested on charges of domestic violence (which were later dismissed). After the incident, fans expressed worry for Garcia. However, as she moved forward with the divorce, Garcia discussed how she felt portrayed as a villain due to the situation.
On June 25th, the Bella twins are set to feature on Kristin Cavallari’s live podcast tour, “Honestly Cavallari”. In a sneak peek from E! News, Nikki Bella candidly discussed the public perception of her after her separation from Artem Chigvintsev, stating:
I think they make me, like, more of a villain than I am.
In response, Brie agreed and so did Kristin Cavallari, who found common ground, following the dissolution of her marriage to former NFL player Jay Cutler in 2020. The former star of “Laguna Beach” pointed out that people often place blame on the woman, a notion possibly reinforced by her portrayal as a reality TV antagonist. Similarly, Nikki Bella suggested that her background in WWE might have led people to misjudge her.
There seems to be an assumption that when strong women excel in a fighting arena, they lack empathy. It’s as if their ability to deliver powerful blows is seen as incompatible with compassion. For instance, I might single out a spectator and engage them physically, just like I could do so effortlessly. However, let me clarify that this is merely a hypothetical scenario and not a reflection of my true intentions or actions.
She did go on to say she’d pay for the hospital bill, at least.
It’s accurate to say that Nikki Bella is known for one of the most surprising villainous transformations in professional wrestling history, when she betrayed her own sister in 2014. However, this was merely a role she portrayed. Both Nikki and Brie Bella have mentioned that there’s a misunderstanding about their toughness outside of the ring, and Nikki concurs with this sentiment.
In response to comments like, “Well, I’m not sure, but back in 2017, your persona in the ring…”, I would clarify by saying, “That wasn’t me. I was portraying a villainous character.” People seem to confuse the character I played with my real self. I remember even in court during my divorce proceedings, people thought of me as that strong, wrestling woman.
As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but echo the sentiments of Kristin Cavallari when she assertively stated that any actions taken within the realm of entertainment should never be exploited during a divorce proceeding.
After Artem Chigvintsev’s arrest, the former couple traded allegations in the ensuing days and weeks, each filing restraining orders against the other. The DWTS alum maintained his innocence, stating he had not been violent towards his wife, instead claiming she was the one who initiated the altercation.
In 2017, the current couple first crossed paths while they were partnered on Dancing with the Stars. They publicly acknowledged their relationship in 2019, and Nikki Garcia welcomed their son Matteo into the world a year later. They exchanged vows in 2022 and spent two years together as a married couple before the unfortunate event transpired.
It appears that the former Traitors cast member is eager to continue on her journey, as she entered 2025 discussing the insights gained from her divorce. She also hinted at the possibility of venturing into dating once more, playfully mentioning earlier this year that she’s looking for someone to “rock her world.
As a passionate movie buff, don’t miss out on the captivating chat between the Bella twins and Kristin Cavallari on “Honestly Cavallari” airing at 10 p.m. ET this coming Wednesday, June 25th. Catch it live on E! or stream it with a Peacock subscription.
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2025-06-25 04:37