Yardbarker
x
Nikki Bella’s WWE Future Is Under A Question Mark
Feb 1, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Nikki Bella during the Women’s Royal Rumble during the WWE Royal Rumble at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Fresh off her return at Clash in Paris, Nikki Bella finds herself at a crossroads, and not just in storyline. What seemed like a triumphant re-emergence has raised far more questions than answers about where her path might go next.

Remembering Paris: A Return With Impact And Uneasy Aftermath

On August 31, 2025, the Paris La Défense Arena roared with anticipation as Bella stepped into the ring to challenge Becky Lynch for the new Women’s Intercontinental Championship. This match wasn’t simply a comeback; this was a statement. She moved with precision and intent, punctuated by signature moves and aggressive offense that reminded fans and critics alike of her former dominance. Yet, despite Bella’s heart and craft, Lynch countered with a rolling backslide, capturing the pin and retaining the title. 

In the immediate aftermath, Bella poured her emotions into her social media presence. She thanked the Bella Army and her devoted fanbase for their unyielding support. She admitted the result was not what she had hoped for, and capped off her message with: “It’s only the beginning.” That phrase landed like a promise rather than a shrug. One update alone didn’t settle the questions; it amplified them: Was this a launching pad for a sustained return or simply the first scene in a short-lived showcase?

Behind The Scenes: Motivation, Momentum, And Missed Marks


Apr 3, 2022; Arlington, TX, USA; WWE COO Triple H enters the arena and addresses fans during WrestleMania at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

What complicates matters further is what Bella shared in a recent interview on the Today show. The former WWE standout, mother to young Matteo, revealed she has entered a “new era” of personal rediscovery. It is driven by proving she still belongs and being a role model of strength and resilience. While her words were powerful, the path ahead remains uncertain.

Bella’s return to television earlier this year didn’t suggest a long-term plan. Still, the Royal Rumble appearance in February and a Raw return in June built momentum toward Evolution’s women’s battle royal and, ultimately, Clash in Paris. Injury and last-minute scrapped plans like the Evolution singles’ match against Liv Morgan, however, derailed her forward trajectory.

Adding another layer to the storyline: Nikki cheekily threw her twin sister, Brie Bella, into the mix in a tongue-in-cheek social media post invoking “Twin Magic.” The teaser sparked chatter about a possible Bella Twins reunion, but Brie’s hesitance amid her husband Bryan Danielson’s AEW role casts uncertainty.

What Lies Ahead

At this point, it’s clear Nikki isn’t mimicking a nostalgic cameo. This isn’t about a single moment under the spotlight. She is clearly chasing something more substantial, an arc, a purpose.

While the narrative positioning is there, the wrestling business is never predictable. A rematch could be set in motion, provided Nikki and Lynch continue to spark creative chemistry. WWE may lean into a redemption storyline that sees Nikki chasing Lynch’s expanded Intercontinental legacy. That said, badges of skepticism remain: some viewers criticized how the match played out, calling elements of it over-sold or dated, even “so fake”.

Alternatively, WWE could integrate Nikki into the larger chaos brewing around the Vision faction, A.J. Lee rumors, and Seth Rollins’ storylines on their Road to Wrestlepalooza.

Nikki may also step into a less contested but equally meaningful role, such as mentorship, cameo feuds, championing women’s evolution, or continuing her personal journey. At the same time, WWE threads her into the women’s division’s future.

End Of Nikki Bella Rant

Nikki’s outing in Paris did more than signal that she’s still in-ring capable. It opened up questions about where she wants to be and whether WWE is prepared to build around her again. Her candid desire for a “new era,” her passionate message to fans, and the genuine physicality she brought back to the squared circle suggest this isn’t the closing credits. It might just be the preface.

For fans and commentators alike, the question is, will WWE give Nikki the space to evolve, or will her story arc fade into highlight reels? More poignantly, does she still see it as just “the beginning”?

This article first appeared on Stadium Rant and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!