Nikki Bella, the iconic WWE Diva, made a triumphant return to the ring at the 2025 Royal Rumble, surprising fans and reigniting her passion for wrestling. At 41, Bella entered the fray as the 30th and final contestant, donning her signature red backwards hat and exuding the charisma that made her a fan favorite. While her run was ultimately cut short by the formidable Nia Jax, the experience reignited a fire within Bella, reminding her of the deep connection she has with the WWE universe. This return marked her first in-ring appearance since the 2022 Royal Rumble, following her and twin sister Brie’s official retirement from full-time wrestling in 2019. However, the allure of the squared circle proved too strong to resist, prompting Bella to reconsider her retirement and potentially embark on another chapter in her wrestling career.
The seeds of this comeback were sown earlier in January 2025 when Bella attended the debut of WWE Raw on Netflix. The electrifying atmosphere, the roar of the crowd, and the unwavering support of the Bella Army rekindled her love for the sport. Feeling the energy surge through her veins, Bella realized how much she missed the thrill of competition and the camaraderie of the locker room. She yearned to once again embody the persona of Nikki Bella, the fierce competitor and entertainer who captivated audiences for years. The experience resonated deeply with her, prompting a realization that WWE was more than just a job; it was a home, a family, a fundamental part of her identity.
Reflecting on her time away from the ring, Bella expressed a profound longing for the world she helped shape. She missed the adrenaline rush of performing, the connection with the fans, and the unique bond she shared with her fellow wrestlers. The Netflix event served as a catalyst, reminding her of the legacy she and Brie had built, paving the way for future generations of female wrestlers. Witnessing the current landscape of women’s wrestling, Bella felt a sense of pride and inspiration, recognizing the impact of their trailblazing efforts. This newfound appreciation for her contributions to the industry fueled her desire to return and experience the evolution of women’s wrestling firsthand.
The prospect of a comeback was further solidified by the positive environment Bella encountered backstage. She was struck by the unity and camaraderie among the female wrestlers, a testament to the progress made in creating a supportive and empowering environment. This sense of belonging and mutual respect resonated deeply with Bella, reinforcing her belief that WWE was where she truly belonged. The positive energy and collaborative spirit within the locker room further cemented her conviction that she could thrive in this environment once again. This invigorating atmosphere, coupled with her reignited passion, made the idea of returning to the ring even more appealing.
Beyond her personal desire to compete, Bella also recognized the powerful message her return could send to her son, Matteo. She envisioned showcasing the multifaceted nature of women, demonstrating that they can excel in diverse fields, from dominating in the wrestling ring to leading in the boardroom. This desire to be a role model for her son, coupled with her reignited passion for wrestling, provided a compelling motivation for her comeback. Bella’s ambition extends beyond personal fulfillment; it’s about empowering her son and inspiring other women to pursue their dreams, regardless of societal expectations.
While Nikki’s Royal Rumble appearance ended in elimination, it marked a significant turning point in her journey. The experience not only rekindled her love for wrestling but also planted the seed for a potential full-fledged return. Furthermore, Nikki hinted at the possibility of her twin sister, Brie, joining her in this endeavor. While Brie is currently immersed in motherhood, Nikki believes that the “fire” within her sister could be reignited, leading to a reunion of the iconic Bella Twins in the WWE ring. The potential for this dynamic duo to once again grace the squared circle adds another layer of excitement to Nikki’s comeback story, promising a thrilling new chapter for the Bella Twins and their devoted fans.
