On the July 28, 2025, episode of WWE Monday Night Raw, a powerful elbow drop from fellow WWE Superstar Piper Niven caused one of Nikki’s breast implants to shift, resulting in significant pain and discomfort. The candid revelation, shared with humor and resilience on The Nikki & Brie Show podcast, has sparked widespread attention, underscoring the physical demands of professional wrestling and Nikki’s unyielding spirit.
A Painful Moment in the Ring
The incident occurred during an electrifying eight-woman tag team match at Little Caesars Arena, where Nikki teamed up with Stephanie Vaquer, IYO SKY, and Rhea Ripley to take on Naomi, Piper Niven, Chelsea Green, and Alba Fyre. The high-stakes match showcased some of the biggest names in WWE’s women’s division, but it took a painful turn for Nikki when Piper Niven, 34, delivered a forceful elbow drop.
Speaking on her podcast, co-hosted with her twin sister Brie Bella, Nikki recounted the moment with a mix of grit and levity: “I had to go to the doctor yesterday to get my t*t looked at… My implant, I think, has moved. It has moved.” Brie added, “Put Nikki’s implant right into her ribs,” highlighting the severity of the injury.
Despite the excruciating pain, Nikki’s determination shone through as she continued the match, refusing to let the injury derail her performance. “I was in a little bit of pain, but I didn’t want the match to end,” she admitted, reflecting her passion for wrestling and her commitment to her fans. The match concluded with Nikki and her team emerging victorious, a testament to her toughness and professionalism in the face of adversity.
Seeking Medical Attention in New York
Following the match, Nikki sought medical attention during her day off in New York City, humorously describing the surreal experience of discussing her injury with doctors while “having conversations with my shirt off.” Medical professionals confirmed that the implant had shifted, likely requiring surgical correction in the future.
Nikki, ever the optimist, shared her plans to address the issue once she retires from in-ring competition, telling her doctor, “Newly divorced. The minute the boots are hung up, I’m coming back to you, and we’re gonna make these girls look real good.” Her lighthearted approach, combined with her resolve to delay surgery until her wrestling career concludes, showcases her strength and forward-thinking mindset.
The injury has made everyday activities challenging, with Nikki noting, “It’s been hard to laugh and cough, but it’s okay.” Her ability to maintain a positive outlook despite the discomfort has resonated with fans, who admire her resilience both in and out of the ring.
Piper Niven’s Playful Response
Piper Niven, the Scottish wrestler who inadvertently caused the injury, acknowledged the incident with a playful social media post in collaboration with WWE. She shared a video of the elbow drop moment, captioned, “Sometimes you gotta hit the .” Niven later posted a cheeky message to Nikki, saying, “Suck it up buttercup, I’m sure you’ll be alright If you want I can do the other side and even things out a bit for you.” The lighthearted exchange hints at a potential future storyline between the two superstars, possibly setting the stage for a thrilling singles match in the coming months.
Nikki’s Triumphant WWE Comeback
The injury marks another chapter in Nikki Bella’s remarkable career, which has seen her overcome significant challenges. After retiring in 2019 due to a brain cyst diagnosis, Nikki made a triumphant return to WWE in February 2025, surprising fans with an appearance at the Royal Rumble. As one-half of The Bella Twins, alongside Brie, Nikki has become a household name through her wrestling achievements and reality TV shows like Total Divas and Total Bellas. Her 2020 induction into the WWE Hall of Fame solidified her legacy as a pioneer in women’s wrestling.
This latest setback comes amidst a transformative period in Nikki’s personal life. Following her divorce from former Dancing with the Stars pro Artem Chigvintsev in September 2024, Nikki has embraced her role as a single mother to her four-year-old son, Matteo. On the June 30 episode of The Nikki & Brie Show, she shared how her son’s love has been a grounding force, stating, “At his age right now, I get so much love that I realized this is all the love I need and want right now.” Her focus on family and personal growth has added depth to her inspiring comeback story.
A Legacy of Resilience
Nikki’s ability to face adversity with humor and determination has endeared her to fans and peers alike. As she navigates this unique injury, the wrestling world eagerly awaits her next moves, both in the ring and beyond. Her story serves as a reminder of the physical and emotional strength required to thrive in the high-octane world of professional wrestling. WWE Monday Night Raw airs live on Netflix every Monday, while The Nikki & Brie Show releases new episodes on Sirius XM on Mondays and Wednesdays, offering fans an intimate look into the lives of these iconic twins.
