Nikki Bella has opened up about the real reason behind the breakup with John Cena, shedding light on the deep struggles she faced after ending their six-year relationship, a story that has intrigued fans searching for the John Cena and Nikki Bella breakup reason. Their decision to part ways after years as a WWE power couple has remained a topic of emotional debate among wrestling followers and their supporters.
Nikki Bella Shares Emotional Struggles After John Cena Breakup
Nikki Bella and John Cena captured the hearts of WWE fans, appearing deeply in love throughout their long-term partnership. However, their relationship came to an unexpected halt that left the wrestling world surprised and wrestling supporters with many unanswered questions. Nikki recently discussed with Entertainment Tonight how difficult it was for her to move on from Cena after their split, especially given how affectionate their relationship had been.
During the interview, Nikki expressed the emotional conflict involved in leaving a loving relationship:
“You almost wish it was bad, because it’s so much easier to walk away. It’s so much harder to walk away when it’s loving.”
—Nikki Bella, Former Divas Champion
She explained that, despite Cena being an “amazing person,” uncertainty clouded her thoughts about a lifelong commitment, which echoes the experiences of many women who find themselves at a crossroads in their relationships. Their six-year bond eventually ended as the two WWE superstars chose to pursue different directions in their personal lives.
The fallout from their breakup was made more public as each star moved forward: Nikki Bella would begin dating dancer Artem Chigvintsev and eventually marry him, while John Cena went on to marry Shay Shariatzadeh, a Canadian engineer.
Diverging Paths and New Relationships
While Nikki Bella hoped for a fresh start with Artem, this chapter also met its end. Her marriage to her dance partner ended in late 2024, following Artem’s arrest in August of that year on allegations of domestic violence. The relationship, like her romance with Cena, was scrutinized in the public eye, especially as their son Matteo was born in July 2020, adding another layer of complexity to Nikki’s personal life.
Nikki had considered starting a family with Cena as well, but noted that their visions for parenthood and family life sharply diverged.
Nikki Bella Explains Decision Not to Have Children with John Cena
Continuing her candid revelations, Nikki detailed the key reason she refrained from having a child with John Cena. Speaking frankly, she said:
“I just knew that I didn’t want to bring a child into a relationship that I didn’t know if this life was right for them, and I went with it, and then Artem came waltzing into my life.”
—Nikki Bella, Former Divas Champion
This candid admission sheds light on the inner conflict Nikki felt, as she wanted to ensure any child she had would be raised in a secure and harmonious environment. The contrast in her and Cena’s perspectives on starting a family ultimately contributed to their decision not to have children together.
Impact of Breakups on Nikki Bella’s WWE Career
Nikki Bella’s personal struggles gained renewed attention during her recent WWE return, when Liv Morgan confronted her in a heated exchange. Liv, known as “the Oblivion specialist,” made pointed remarks about Nikki’s desire to “have it all”—referencing both championship ambitions and relationships. The rivalry quickly escalated beyond words, leading to a physical altercation in the ring as Morgan unleashed her signature move on Nikki.
Not one to back down, Nikki responded on Instagram, making her intentions clear: she plans to pursue Liv Morgan in her ongoing mission to reassert her status as a leading WWE superstar.
Looking Ahead: The Aftermath and New Rivalries
The deeply personal reasons behind the John Cena and Nikki Bella breakup have resonated with fans, highlighting how complex relationships can shape life choices, aspirations, and even public personas. As Nikki Bella seeks redemption and a comeback in WWE, her story continues to unfold—a mix of heartbreak, self-discovery, and rivalry. Her journey, alongside the involvement of John Cena, Artem Chigvintsev, Shay Shariatzadeh, Liv Morgan, and her son Matteo, reflects the intense emotional and professional challenges faced by those in the public eye. WWE fans and observers remain eager to see how Nikki’s next chapter will influence her legacy and the evolving landscape of women’s wrestling.
