Nikki Bella: John Cena Breakup | What Happened With John Cena

The breakup between Nikki Bella and John Cena was one of the most talked-about splits in the world of professional wrestling and reality TV. As two of WWE’s biggest stars, their relationship captivated fans on-screen and off-screen. But what really happened between Nikki Bella and John Cena? Why did one of wrestling’s most glamorous couples call it quits just weeks before their wedding?

In this article, we take a deep dive into their relationship timeline, the breakup reasons, aftermath, media coverage, and how both Nikki and John have moved on. Let’s uncover the full story behind the Nikki Bella John Cena breakup.

Who Is Nikki Bella?

Before diving into the breakup, let’s understand who Nikki Bella is. Born Stephanie Nicole Garcia-Colace on November 21, 1983, Nikki Bella is a retired WWE wrestler, actress, entrepreneur, and reality television star. She rose to fame in the WWE alongside her twin sister, Brie Bella, forming the dynamic duo known as The Bella Twins.

Nikki is a two-time WWE Divas Champion and is known for her fierce in-ring persona, fashion influence, and appearances on reality shows like Total Divas and Total Bellas. She has a massive fan following and is considered one of the most iconic female wrestlers in WWE history.

Who Is John Cena?

John Cena, born April 23, 1977, is a professional wrestler, actor, and television host. Known for his “Never Give Up” mantra, Cena is a 16-time world champion in WWE, matching Ric Flair’s record. Apart from wrestling, Cena has made a name in Hollywood with roles in movies like The Suicide Squad, Fast X, and Blockers.

John Cena is admired for his work ethic, physique, and larger-than-life personality. However, his relationship with Nikki Bella brought a more personal side of him into the public eye.

The Beginning of Nikki Bella and John Cena’s Relationship

The love story between Nikki Bella and John Cena began in 2012. After years of being friends in WWE, the two started dating and quickly became the power couple of wrestling. Their chemistry was undeniable, and they were frequently seen together in public, on red carpets, and in WWE storylines.

Their relationship blossomed on reality shows like Total Divas, where fans got a behind-the-scenes look at their romantic journey. Cena’s more reserved demeanor contrasted with Nikki’s outgoing personality, but their bond seemed strong.

John Cena Proposes to Nikki Bella at WrestleMania 33

One of the most iconic moments in WWE history came at WrestleMania 33 in April 2017. After winning a mixed tag team match against The Miz and Maryse, John Cena got down on one knee and proposed to Nikki Bella in front of a live audience of 70,000 fans in Orlando, Florida.

The moment was emotional and historic. Nikki said yes, and the WWE Universe celebrated what seemed like a perfect love story.

Wedding Plans and Trouble Beneath the Surface

Despite the fairytale proposal, all wasn’t well behind the scenes. Wedding planning exposed differences between the couple. Nikki wanted children and a traditional family life. Cena, on the other hand, had long maintained that he didn’t want to have kids.

Cena’s hesitations stemmed from his past experiences, intense career focus, and lifestyle preferences. On Total Bellas, Nikki often expressed her concerns about giving up her dreams of motherhood. This emotional conflict became a recurring theme in the show’s narrative.

The Breakup: Why Did Nikki Bella and John Cena Split?

In April 2018, just weeks before their scheduled wedding in May, Nikki Bella and John Cena announced their breakup.

Here are the main reasons behind the Nikki Bella John Cena breakup:

1. Different Views on Parenthood

Nikki wanted to be a mother. Cena had previously undergone a vasectomy and was clear about not wanting children. Although he later said he was willing to reverse it for her, Nikki believed that he was compromising his true desires.

2. Lifestyle and Career Differences

John Cena’s demanding Hollywood and wrestling career often took him away from home. Nikki also had her own commitments. Their conflicting schedules made it hard to build a stable relationship.

3. Emotional Incompatibility

While they cared deeply for each other, emotional intimacy was reportedly lacking. Cena was more logical and structured, whereas Nikki was more emotionally driven. Nikki once said, “Even in the end when he was willing to give me a kid, I could tell it wasn’t what he wanted.”

4. Public Pressure and Reality TV

The intense public scrutiny from Total Bellas and media may have added pressure. With millions watching, every argument and doubt became amplified.

Official Statement After the Split

Nikki Bella shared on Instagram:

“After much contemplation and six years of being together, Nikki Bella and John Cena announced today their decision to separate as a couple.”

Cena tweeted:

“Hardship, loss, and humility are extremely difficult waters to navigate, but perseverance through them builds a strength to withstand anything life throws your way.”

Both maintained a respectful tone, avoiding public drama.

Did They Try to Reconcile?

Yes, shortly after their breakup, the couple tried to reconcile. Cena even appeared on Today expressing his continued love for Nikki and desire to marry her. For a while, it seemed like the wedding might be back on.

But in July 2018, Nikki confirmed the relationship was officially over. She stated, “I had a beautiful and loving six-year relationship with a wonderful man. I have the utmost respect for John, but I know this is what’s best for me.”

Moving On: Nikki Bella’s Life After John Cena

Following the breakup, Nikki Bella took time for self-reflection and healing. She focused on her businesses, including her wine brand Bonita Bonita, and her YouTube channel with Brie.

Nikki Bella and Artem Chigvintsev

In 2019, Nikki began dating her Dancing with the Stars partner Artem Chigvintsev. Their relationship quickly grew serious, and the couple got engaged in November 2019. In July 2020, Nikki gave birth to their son, Matteo Artemovich Chigvintsev.

Nikki and Artem got married in Paris in August 2022, and she now goes by Nikki Garcia in her personal life, embracing a new chapter with her family.

John Cena’s Life After Nikki Bella

John Cena also moved on, focusing on his acting career and personal growth. He continued to land major film roles and maintained his strong presence in pop culture.

John Cena Marries Shay Shariatzadeh

In October 2020, Cena quietly married Shay Shariatzadeh, a Canadian engineer he met in 2019 during the filming of Playing with Fire. The couple had a second wedding celebration in Vancouver in 2022.

Cena has kept his relationship with Shay more private compared to his time with Nikki, suggesting a shift in how he manages his personal life.

How Nikki and John Feel About Each Other Today

Despite the breakup, Nikki Bella and John Cena have always spoken about each other with respect. Nikki said in multiple interviews that Cena was her first love and that she would always admire the time they spent together.

John Cena, too, has only ever had kind words for Nikki, acknowledging how much she meant to him.

Their relationship, while it didn’t last, had a profound impact on both their lives.

What Fans Learned From the Nikki Bella John Cena Breakup

The breakup between Nikki and John taught fans several key lessons:

1. Love Isn’t Always Enough: Even when there’s love, incompatibility in life goals can be a deal-breaker.

2. Being True to Yourself Matters: Nikki didn’t compromise on her dream of becoming a mother, and John didn’t pretend to want something he didn’t.

3. Mutual Respect Can Coexist With Separation: They ended things maturely, without scandal or blame.

Where Are They Now (2025 Update)?

• Nikki Bella (Nikki Garcia) continues to be a media personality, entrepreneur, and mother. She co-hosts podcasts and TV shows and is enjoying life with Artem and their son.

• John Cena is thriving in Hollywood, with several upcoming films and a possible return to WWE in guest appearances.

While they are no longer a couple, both are happier in their respective lives.

Conclusion

The Nikki Bella John Cena breakup was one of the most heartbreaking and high-profile splits in recent entertainment history. But it also showed the world how two people can part ways gracefully, grow individually, and find happiness again.

Their journey reminded us that sometimes, the most loving thing you can do for someone is to let them go.

Whether you were rooting for them or watching from afar, one thing is clear: Nikki Bella and John Cena will always be remembered as a legendary duo — both inside and outside the wrestling ring.