Nikki Bella Divorce Update: Inside The Custody Battle And Assets Division In 2026
WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Garcia (formerly Nikki Bella) and professional dancer Artem Chigvintsev continue to navigate the complex legal and personal aftermath of their highly publicized split. Following a tumultuous separation initiated in late 2024, the former couple’s ongoing custody and asset negotiations remain a focal point of celebrity news.
| Key Metric / Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Primary Parties | Nikki Garcia (Bella) & Artem Chigvintsev |
| Divorce Filing Date | September 11, 2024 |
| Current Status (2026) | Finalized proceedings and co-parenting execution |
| Children Involved | Matteo Artemovich Chigvintsev (Born July 2020) |
| Key Issues | Joint legal custody, child support, and asset division |
Context & Background
The high-profile marriage began unraveling publicly in August 2024 following a domestic incident at the couple's Napa Valley home, which led to Chigvintsev’s arrest on suspicion of domestic violence. Although the Napa County District Attorney ultimately declined to file formal criminal charges against the Dancing with the Stars pro, Garcia filed for divorce just days later, citing irreconcilable differences.
The pair first met in 2017 when they were partnered on Season 25 of the hit dance competition show. They officially began dating in 2019, wed in Paris in August 2022, and starred in their own E! spin-off series, Nikki Bella Says I Do. The sudden fallout shocked fans who had followed their journey from reality television partners to married parents.
Throughout 2025, the legal battle intensified over custody arrangements and temporary restraining orders. Garcia initially sought sole physical and legal custody of their young son, Matteo, while Chigvintsev petitioned for joint custody and spousal support, pointing to his loss of income following the public scandal.
Impact & Utility
The dissolution of the Garcia-Chigvintsev marriage has wider implications for celebrity brand management and family law precedents regarding domestic disputes. For fans and legal observers alike, the case highlights the legal intricacies of dividing assets when one partner claims significant career damage due to the split.
The primary outcomes and legal resolutions settled by the court include:
- Co-Parenting Schedule: The court established a structured co-parenting agreement, emphasizing the best interest of their young son while utilizing professional moderators for custody handoffs.
- Napa Valley Property Division: The division of their shared real estate assets, including their famous Napa Valley residence, was a primary point of negotiation to ensure equitable distribution.
- Financial Resolutions: Spousal support negotiations addressed the disparity in the parties' post-split earnings, particularly after Chigvintsev's television contracts were affected.
- Rebranding Efforts: Nikki Garcia has successfully transitioned her professional identity away from the "Bella" moniker, focusing heavily on her solo hosting gigs and business ventures.
DWTS' Gleb Savchenko Supports Artem Amid Nikki Bella Divorce | Life & Style
What's Next
As 2026 progresses, both Garcia and Chigvintsev are actively focusing on their independent professional lives. Garcia continues to expand her wine brand, Bonita Bonita, and pursue television hosting opportunities, maintaining a strong social media presence focused on motherhood and wellness.
Meanwhile, Chigvintsev is quietly rebuilding his career in the dance community, offering private choreography and seeking a return to mainstream entertainment platforms. The focus for both remains maintaining a stable environment for Matteo as they officially close this chapter of their lives.
