Nikki Garcia Seemingly Moves On With Athlete 20 Years Younger Following Artem Chigvinstev Divorce
By Fiyin Olowokandi on December 19, 2025 at 12:45 PM EST

Nikki Garcia appears to be embracing a fresh romantic chapter with Philadelphia Eagle star Cooper DeJean.
A year after calling off her marriage to “DWTS” star Artem Chigvinstev, Garcia has sparked dating rumors with the 22-year-old athlete.
Garcia's split from Chigvintsev was messy and marked by domestic violence allegations that he later admitted took a heavy toll on him. Now, Garcia seems to be leaving the past behind and stepping into what looks like a promising new flame.
Nikki Garcia Seemingly Teases New Romantic Interest With Football Star
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The WWE star recently shared highlights from her trip to Philadelphia, where she attended the Eagles vs. Las Vegas Raiders game.
In her Instagram reel, the wrestler was all smiles, rocking a black Eagles bomber jacket and leather pants, capturing playful moments throughout the day. She strutted across the field before settling into her sideline seat and enjoyed drinks with friends in the VIP lounge.
The highlights of the video came later as Garcia is seen posing in DeJean’s locker, flashing a bright smile. Another eye-catching moment in the clip unfolded after the game at a local bar, where the two were spotted cozying up together.
Captioning the reel, Garcia wrote, "So blessed for the people around me, new friends and old, who make life so special and fun.” She thanked the team and concluded, “And as always, Fly Eagles Fly! Truly, THE city of brotherly love!"
Per Page Six, Garcia also posted additional snapshots on her Instagram Stories, including photos from Lincoln Financial Field, shots with the team mascot, views from her sideline seats, and celebratory toasts with friends in a suite.
While their recent outing has fueled speculation, subtle signs have been building. Garcia and DeJean follow each other on social media and frequently exchange likes and comments on one another's posts.
Nikki Garcia Opens Up About Dating Again Following Divorce From Ex-Husband

Garcia's rumored link to DeJean comes months after she spoke candidly about going back to the dating scene, while making it clear that marriage is no longer on the table.
"I can definitely see myself falling in love again," the retired wrestler said at the time, as reported by The Blast. She added, "I don't ever want to sign paperwork again. If I find the right person, I don't mind [a commitment ceremony], but I don't want to be legally bound."
Garcia also admitted she has reservations about dating someone younger, citing insecurities about her body following childbirth.
The “Total Divas” alum filed for divorce from Chigvintsev in September last year, shortly after his arrest on suspicion of domestic violence in Napa County.
In her filing, she requested sole legal and physical custody of their 4-year-old son, Matteo, sought supervised visitation, and asked that spousal support be terminated for both parties.
The former couple ultimately finalized their divorce through mediation. In November, they mutually dropped their domestic violence restraining orders.
The ‘Total Bellas’ Star Shares Update on Co-Parenting With Artem Chigvintsev

Following their split, Garcia and Chigvintsev have co-parented their son, and Garcia said the arrangement is working well.
As The Blast reported, Garcia shared the update on a past episode of “The Nikki & Brie Show,” where she discussed her return to the ring and how her ex-husband has stepped up to help care for their child as she adjusts to the change.
"I have to give it to Artem, he's been amazing at adapting to my schedule," Garcia said. "He's been great."
Artem Chigvintsev Addresses the Fallout From Domestic Violence Allegations

As Chigvintsev and Garcia continue to care for their son, he has spoken openly about how the abuse scandal affected his life. Per The Blast, the pro dancer admitted the incident sent him into a downward spiral.
He stressed the unfairness of the situation, noting that his reputation suffered despite prosecutors declining to file charges. Among the setbacks was the loss of roughly $100,000 in income from dance gigs and public appearances.
Chigvintsev explained that he chose not to pursue the matter further once the District Attorney dropped the case, saying he wanted to move on and leave the ordeal behind him.
Nikki Garcia Hints at the Future, Emphasizes She Doesn't Want More Kids

With her marriage behind her, Garcia is looking ahead and being clear about what she wants for the future — no more children.
According to The Blast, the 42-year-old firmly reiterated that she is done expanding her family.
"I definitely do not want more kids. I am fine," Garcia said, adding that motherhood to one child already keeps her fully occupied.
While her stance on having more children has changed, Garcia noted that she still believes in true love. As dating rumors swirl around her and Cooper DeJean, it remains unconfirmed whether the two are officially together.