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Nikki Bella Announces Retirement from WWE

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at 22:05 GMT by Wrestling News
      Locales: California, Connecticut, UNITED STATES

London, England - February 12th, 2026 - Nikki Bella, one of the most recognizable faces in modern WWE history, has officially confirmed that her current series of appearances, including those on the ongoing European Tour, will be her last as an active in-ring competitor. The announcement, initially made to Metro in early 2026, marks the end of a nearly 13-year career for the former Divas Champion, leaving a significant void in the landscape of women's professional wrestling.

Bella's journey in WWE began in 2007 as part of the twin tag team alongside her sister, Brie. Initially presented as cheerleaders, the Bella Twins quickly evolved into formidable competitors, captivating audiences with their charisma and increasingly impressive in-ring skills. Their reality television show, Total Divas, further catapulted them to mainstream fame, allowing fans a glimpse into their lives both inside and outside the squared circle. This crossover appeal was revolutionary at the time, helping to bridge the gap between wrestling and broader entertainment audiences.

Throughout her career, Nikki Bella consistently pushed the boundaries of women's wrestling. She was a pioneer in demanding greater representation and opportunities for female performers, advocating for longer matches and more complex storylines. Her rivalry with Charlotte Flair in 2016, culminating in a Falls Count Anywhere match at SummerSlam, is widely considered a watershed moment for the women's division. This match, notorious for its physicality and drama, showcased the potential of women's wrestling to deliver the same level of excitement as its male counterpart. Bella's willingness to take risks and embrace a more aggressive style of wrestling helped pave the way for the current generation of female superstars.

While Nikki achieved significant singles success, including a reign as Divas Champion, her final in-ring match at WrestleMania 36 in 2020 alongside Brie against Sasha Banks and Bayley, wasn't a victorious one. Despite the loss, it served as a fitting end to a chapter of her career, acknowledging her contributions to the tag team division. Now, four years later, she solidifies that decision.

However, Bella's departure isn't a complete farewell to the world of entertainment. She's increasingly focused on expanding her business portfolio and prioritizing her family life with her husband, Artem Chigvintsev, and their children. Sources close to the family indicate she's been heavily involved in several entrepreneurial ventures, including a successful line of organic baby products and a burgeoning real estate investment firm. Her commitment to these new endeavors appears unwavering, signaling a definitive shift in her professional priorities.

"I'm so grateful for WWE and everything they've given me, and I'll always be grateful," Bella told Metro. "But I have so many other things that I'm focusing on right now, so it's going to be the last time, for sure." This statement suggests a thoughtful and deliberate decision, indicating a desire to balance professional ambitions with personal fulfillment.

The news of Bella's retirement has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow wrestlers, industry analysts, and fans alike. Many have lauded her for her resilience, her dedication to the craft, and her unwavering commitment to empowering other women in the wrestling industry. Social media platforms are flooded with #ThankYouNikkiBella, showcasing the profound impact she's had on the WWE Universe.

While Bella has left the door slightly ajar for potential future appearances - perhaps in a non-wrestling capacity - she has firmly stated that her days of full-time in-ring competition are over. This signifies a passing of the torch to a new generation of female wrestlers who continue to build upon the foundation she helped establish. The WWE women's division has experienced unprecedented growth in recent years, and Bella's legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of performers to reach new heights. Her influence will be felt for years to come, not only in the ring but also in the broader cultural conversation surrounding women in sports and entertainment.

Looking ahead, it remains to be seen what the future holds for Nikki Bella. However, one thing is certain: she has left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling and is poised to achieve even greater success in her future endeavors.