After Domestic Violence Charges, Nikki Garcia Files For Divorce From DWTS’ Artem Chigvintsev

After days of levelling serious domestic violence accusations against Artem Chigvintsev, Nikki ‘Bella’ Garcia has officially filed for divorce from her husband. According to E! News, court documents indicate that the former WWE champion submitted her filing in Napa Valley, California. This comes nearly two weeks after Artem was arrested last month for allegedly assaulting Nikki, leaving her injured. He was charged under California Penal Code 273.5(a) for causing injury to a spouse or cohabitant, the report added. The Dancing With the Stars pro was later released on a $25,000 bond. Married in 2022, the couple has a four-year-old son, Matteo.

It remains to be seen if they will also contest for custody of their child.

Speaking about the current developments, Nikki’s representative maintained that it is a private matter and requires utmost privacy for her and her family.

What Led To Artem Chigvintsev’s Arrest?

On August 29, Chigvintsev was booked in Napa County for felony corporal injury to his wife. Right after the arrest, a few details came to light surrounding the incident. According to a radio dispatch call obtained by TMZ, Artem reportedly called 911, seeking medical assistance, and claimed that Nikki had thrown shoes at him.

“Initially came in as requesting medical, but now he is stating he got into an argument with his wife, and his wife threw shoes at the reporting party,” the dispatcher said in the audio recording. The call also noted “active 415,” a code for “suspected disturbing of the peace,” further adding that there was a child on the scene.

While the request was later cancelled, the police still showed up at the house and arrested Artem after finding obvious injury marks on the victim’s body. No further information was available on the incident.

While speculations about the couple’s next steps were still swirling, Nikki Garcia hinted at the impending divorce by recently ditching her wedding ring. At Netflix’s live hot dog eating contest, the 40-year-old was spotted without it. The couple has also been living apart, with Artem reportedly staying at a friend’s place.

Neither Artem nor Nikki have issued any statements on their relationship status.