Nikki Bella Praised Husband Artem Chigvintsev Days Before Domestic Violence Arrest
Celebration Turns to Tragedy
Nikki Bella recently celebrated her love for husband Artem Chigvintsev, just days before his arrest on a felony domestic violence charge. On August 26, 2024, Bella, 40, shared a heartfelt Instagram post marking their second wedding anniversary. The post featured a highlight reel from their 2022 wedding in Paris, set to Haley Reinhart’s rendition of “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Bella reflected on their love story in the caption, expressing deep emotions and gratitude.
Social Media Tributes
In her anniversary post, Bella wrote, “This song is our love story. I’ll never forget where I was when I asked Jesus about Artem. Having a conversation with He & God.” She continued, “How my feelings felt too soon. It all felt too fast. And then this song came on. And that’s when I knew that I was falling in love with him and that it was all meant to be. 🙏🏼✨”
Chigvintsev, 42, responded with a tribute of his own, sharing photos from their wedding day and expressing his love: “Happy anniversary my love. [C]an’t see my life without you. You are my everything ❤️.” Bella replied, “Happy Anniversary Click 🥹❤️🔥💋 Love you so much!”
Arrest Details and Legal Proceedings
On Thursday, August 29, 2024, Chigvintsev was arrested by Sheriff’s deputies in Napa County, California, on charges related to domestic violence. The specific details of the incident are not clear, and it is unknown if Bella, also known professionally as Nikki Garcia, was involved. The alleged victim has requested confidentiality, according to Napa County Sheriff’s spokesperson Henry Woffard.
Chigvintsev was released on $25,000 bail and his mugshot was made public. The couple resides in Napa with their 4-year-old son, Matteo, born in July 2020. Bella posted a selfie from a Downtown Napa day spa on the day of her husband’s arrest.
The Couple’s Relationship and Public Life
Nikki Bella and Artem Chigvintsev met in 2017 while Bella was a contestant on “DWTS.” Bella was engaged to John Cena at the time, but they broke up in July 2018. By January 2019, Bella and Chigvintsev began dating. Their lavish 2022 wedding was featured in the reality TV series “Nikki Bella Says I Do.”
Chigvintsev will not be returning to “DWTS” for Season 33. He has been a fixture on the show since Season 19, except for Seasons 21 and 28.
The Post has reached out to representatives for Chigvintsev and Bella for further comment. For those affected by domestic violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or by texting START to 88788.
