Nikki Bella and John Cena were one of <a href="https://cynicaltimes.org/category/wrestling-news/wwe/”>WWE’s most high-profile couples during their relationship, which included a public engagement at WrestleMania 33. However, a tense moment unfolded when a former WWE star made an unexpected move toward Bella while Cena was absent, prompting a memorable reaction from the Cenation leader.
On the January 19, 2016, episode of Total Divas, Dolph Ziggler, a former WWE World Champion and Nikki Bella’s ex, revealed feelings for her despite being aware that she was with John Cena. During their conversation, Ziggler claimed he could provide Bella with what she desired most: a husband and a child.
The situation escalated when Ziggler leaned in to kiss Nikki Bella, but she quickly rebuffed him with a slap, finding the gesture disrespectful to Cena. Later that evening, during a dinner date, Bella recounted the incident to Cena, who reacted with a mixture of surprise and visible discomfort over what had occurred.
John Cena’s Mature Response to the Unexpected Kiss Attempt
Despite being a 17-time world champion and known for his toughness, Cena took an unexpectedly calm approach toward the confrontation involving Ziggler. He expressed to Nikki Bella that he respected her as an adult, acknowledging that if she felt any connection with Ziggler, she was free to explore it.
“I love you, you know, I treat you as a grown woman, and if you feel that there’s a connection there and you want to pursue it, I can’t stop you, and I’d be so stupid for trying to. It’s not like I’m gonna slap him with an empty white glove and challenge him to a duel on Main Street. It’s just not how it works. I don’t wanna downplay it, but what can I do?” [41:12 – 41:46 on the WWE Network]
—John Cena, WWE Superstar
Rather than reacting with anger or aggression, Cena made it clear he would not resort to violence or public confrontations, demonstrating a level of respect and understanding unusual amid such tense circumstances.
Current Lives and WWE Returns for Nikki Bella and John Cena
Since their breakup, Nikki Bella and John Cena have moved on with their personal lives. Bella, a WWE Hall of Famer, is recently divorced from her former husband, Artem Chigvintsev, while Cena has married Shay Shariatzadeh. Both continue to remain relevant figures within and beyond the WWE universe.
Most recently, Nikki Bella has made a comeback in WWE. After returning in June, she competed in a Battle Royal at the Evolution 2025 event but did not secure a victory. Her return has sparked fresh excitement among fans, especially after her verbal clash with Becky Lynch, the reigning Women’s Intercontinental Champion, on a post-SummerSlam episode of RAW.
This confrontation has set the stage for a potential title match between Bella and Lynch at the upcoming Clash in Paris Premium Live Event later this month. Nikki Bella’s blend of experience and popularity makes her return one to watch closely as the storyline develops.
