Nikki Bella is one of the most recognizable names in the wrestling world, not just for her in-ring performance but also for her high-profile relationship with fellow WWE superstar John Cena. Their romance captivated fans for years, often making headlines and being featured in popular reality TV shows like Total Divas and Total Bellas. But the big question remains: Are Nikki Bella and John Cena married? And what’s the truth behind rumors involving child support? Let’s take a closer look at their journey together and the reality of where things stand now.
Who is Nikki Bella?
Nikki Bella, born Stephanie Nicole Garcia-Colace on November 21, 1983, in San Diego, California, is a retired professional wrestler, TV personality, and entrepreneur. She rose to fame through WWE as one-half of the Bella Twins alongside her sister, Brie Bella. Nikki is a two-time WWE Divas Champion and holds the record for the longest reign in that title’s history.
Career Highlights:
-
Debuted in WWE: 2007
-
Retired: Officially retired in 2019
-
Longest-reigning Divas Champion (301 days)
-
Starred in Total Divas and Total Bellas
-
Competed in Dancing with the Stars
-
Entrepreneur with multiple ventures including wine and fashion
Nikki is now a mother, wife, and continues to be active in media and business ventures post-retirement.
Who is John Cena?
John Cena, born April 23, 1977, is one of the most iconic WWE superstars of all time. With a career that spans wrestling, acting, philanthropy, and motivational speaking, Cena has remained a household name for over two decades.
Career Highlights:
-
16-time WWE World Champion
-
Hollywood actor (Fast & Furious, Peacemaker, Bumblebee)
-
Former U.S. Marine in The Marine
-
Known for his catchphrases “Never Give Up” and “You Can’t See Me”
-
Holds the record for most Make-A-Wish Foundation wishes granted (over 650)
John Cena’s personal life often stayed private—until he and Nikki Bella went public with their relationship.
Nikki Bella and John Cena: A Love Story That Captivated Millions
Nikki and John began dating in 2012. Fans followed their relationship closely as it blossomed both on and off the screen. From their chemistry on Total Divas to their emotional moments in Total Bellas, the couple was seen as a perfect match despite a few rocky moments.
Key Milestones:
-
2013: Nikki and John began dating publicly.
-
2017: John Cena proposed to Nikki Bella in the ring at WrestleMania 33 in an emotional moment witnessed by millions.
-
2018: The couple called off their engagement just weeks before their wedding.
Why Did Nikki Bella and John Cena Break Up?
Their breakup came as a shock to many. After six years together and a public engagement, fans expected a happy ending. However, reality was different behind the scenes.
Reasons for the Breakup:
-
Differing Views on Family: John Cena was initially firm about not wanting children, whereas Nikki longed for motherhood.
-
Lifestyle Differences: Cena’s structured, disciplined life clashed with Nikki’s desire for freedom and spontaneity.
-
Commitment Issues: Reports claimed Cena’s reluctance to remarry and settle down created tension.
-
Mental Health and Independence: Nikki has since spoken about needing to rediscover herself, as she felt she was losing her identity in the relationship.
In a candid interview, Nikki stated:
“Even though it was painful, I knew that breaking up was the right decision for both of us.”
Despite the split, both remained respectful of each other and often expressed admiration for their time together.
Did Nikki Bella and John Cena Ever Get Married?
No, Nikki Bella and John Cena never got married.
Although they were engaged, the couple never made it down the aisle. Their wedding was originally scheduled for May 5, 2018, but was ultimately called off. After trying to reconcile, they officially parted ways in mid-2018.
Who Is Nikki Bella Married To Now?
Nikki Bella found love again—this time with Artem Chigvintsev, her former partner on Dancing with the Stars.
Relationship Timeline:
-
Met on Dancing with the Stars in 2017
-
Started dating in 2019
-
Engaged in 2020
-
Welcomed a baby boy, Matteo Artemovich, in July 2020
-
Married in August 2022 in Paris, France
Their wedding and journey to parenthood were featured in the E! News series Nikki Bella Says I Do.
Nikki has often spoken about how different her relationship with Artem is—more emotionally supportive, less controlling, and very collaborative when it comes to parenting.
Does John Cena Have Any Children?
As of now, John Cena does not have any biological children. After his split with Nikki, Cena has since married Shay Shariatzadeh, a Canadian engineer. The couple tied the knot in 2020 in a private ceremony.
While Cena previously expressed disinterest in fatherhood, he has recently made statements suggesting that his views have softened. However, no confirmed reports indicate that he has fathered any children as of 2025.
Is John Cena Paying Child Support to Nikki Bella?
A frequently searched question is: Does John Cena pay child support to Nikki Bella?
The Answer: No, John Cena does not pay child support to Nikki Bella.
Here’s why:
-
Nikki Bella and John Cena never had children together.
-
They never got married.
-
There is no legal obligation for Cena to provide child support in this context.
Nikki shares her son, Matteo, with her husband Artem Chigvintsev, and the two co-parent successfully. There is no involvement of John Cena in this dynamic, nor is there any financial responsibility on his part.
Debunking Rumors About Nikki Bella and John Cena’s Child Support Drama
Despite widespread rumors, there has been no child support dispute between Nikki Bella and John Cena. Gossip websites and tabloids often twist narratives for clicks, but reliable sources and the individuals themselves have clarified the truth.
Nikki Bella has even stated on her podcast The Bellas Podcast that she and John have no lingering issues and both have moved on.
Life After John Cena: Nikki Bella’s New Chapter
Post-breakup, Nikki Bella has embraced her new identity as a mother, wife, and businesswoman. Her podcast, reality shows, and beauty ventures have kept her in the spotlight.
Current Ventures:
-
Co-host of The Bellas Podcast
-
Founder of Bonita Bonita Wine
-
Judge on America’s Got Talent: Extreme
-
Starred in Nikki Bella Says I Do
She also frequently advocates for women’s empowerment, mental health, and motherhood journeys.
John Cena’s Life Now
John Cena has continued to thrive post-Nikki Bella, both in his Hollywood career and personal life.
Recent Highlights:
-
Lead role in Peacemaker (HBO Max)
-
Continued involvement in WWE as a part-timer
-
Married Shay Shariatzadeh in 2020
-
Pursuing philanthropic efforts, especially with the Make-A-Wish Foundation
Cena remains a symbol of resilience, discipline, and professionalism.
What Can We Learn From Nikki Bella and John Cena’s Story?
Their relationship, while ending in separation, taught fans about:
-
Respectful endings: Both handled the breakup with grace.
-
Growth and Self-Awareness: Nikki chose personal growth and motherhood over staying in a situation that didn’t fit her future.
-
Honest Communication: Differing life goals can end relationships, but that doesn’t make either party wrong.
Their individual paths have proven that love, even when it doesn’t last, can be meaningful.
Conclusion
So, are Nikki Bella and John Cena married? No—they never married despite a long and public relationship.
And is John Cena paying child support to Nikki Bella? Again, no—since they never had a child together.
Nikki Bella is now married to Artem Chigvintsev and has a son. John Cena is married to Shay Shariatzadeh, and they continue to live their best lives separately. Though their love story ended, both moved on in fulfilling ways, proving that endings can lead to even better beginnings.
Leave a Reply