Nikki Bella WWE RAW comeback faced a challenging moment as the 41-year-old wrestler recently suffered a submission defeat during a WWE RAW episode. The veteran, who returned to WWE earlier this year, experienced this setback in a high-profile singles match aired last night.
Details of Nikki Bella’s Recent WWE RAW Match
Last night’s WWE RAW featured a heated encounter between Nikki Bella and Asuka, known as the Empress of Tomorrow. The match followed a tense backstage argument, culminating in Asuka applying her signature submission move, the Asuka Lock, which forced Bella to tap out in the center of the ring. After the loss, Bella took to Instagram to express gratitude toward her supporters and reflect on her journey.
“✨ Gonna be GOLDEN ✨Last night wasn’t my night for victory, but my heart is full. Every loss is just fuel for the comeback. Thank you for being on this journey with me Bella Army! We rise together. We glow light together! My wins and losses don’t define me — the fight, the passion, and the love for this will always keep me standing tall! 🫶🏼✨🤍🙏🏼✝️💛💪🏼💋🌟🌙,” she wrote.
—Nikki Bella, WWE Superstar
Earlier this year, Nikki Bella challenged Becky Lynch for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship at Clash in Paris but was unable to capture the title. Looking ahead, Becky Lynch is scheduled to team with Seth Rollins to face AJ Lee and CM Punk at the upcoming WWE Wrestlepalooza event.
Industry Criticism of Nikki Bella’s WWE Booking
Wrestling veteran Vince Russo recently voiced criticism regarding the way WWE’s creative team has booked Nikki Bella since her return. Speaking on Sportskeeda Wrestling’s Legion of RAW show, Russo expressed concerns that Bella’s reappearance has been overshadowed by the rapid return of AJ Lee. He argued that the company missed an opportunity by not properly establishing Bella with fans before bringing Lee back into the spotlight.

“Once we get Nikki over, okay, let’s bring AJ Lee, but the fact they bring Nikki Bella in and literally weeks later they’re bringing AJ Lee in, nobody’s gonna get over, and you know why, here’s the big picture, Chris [Featherstone], I was gonna say before, there’s no focus on anybody,” he said.
—Vince Russo, Wrestling Legend
Russo’s comments highlight a key concern about WWE’s creativity and focus, suggesting that a lack of clear direction has made it difficult for any returning talent to fully connect with the audience. Fans and insiders alike are curious to see how Nikki Bella’s character development evolves amid these booking challenges.
Looking Forward: Nikki Bella’s Next Steps in WWE
Despite the recent loss and external criticism, Nikki Bella remains committed to her comeback, signaling potential changes in her WWE RAW persona. Her recent online message revealed not only resilience but also a passionate determination to keep fighting and growing within the company. As WWE prepares for future events like Wrestlepalooza, Bella’s trajectory will be an intriguing storyline to follow, especially with major names such as Becky Lynch, Seth Rollins, AJ Lee, and CM Punk involved in upcoming matches.
