Nikki Bella had fans talking this week after a brief moment in her latest social media recap ignited unexpected dating speculation involving Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Cooper DeJean.
The WWE star, whose real name is Nikki Garcia, spent the weekend in Philadelphia, during which she attended the Eagles’ win over the Las Vegas Raiders.
Among clips from the trip was a quick shot of Bella posing in the team’s locker room—specifically in front of DeJean’s locker. The moment was short, but screenshots quickly circulated online, with fans zooming in on a comment made by DeJean: “Another fun weekend ❤️.”
That was enough to send social media into detective mode. Some fans immediately began “shipping” the two, while others were quick to dismiss the rumors.
Comments ranged from playful curiosity to skepticism, with several noting that DeJean had previously been linked to Steph Wilfawn and suggesting the interaction was harmless.
Others noted Bella’s longtime enthusiasm for sports and athletes, while others pointed out that there is a huge age disparity between Bella and DeJean.
Bella was also at the game alongside WWE star Cody Rhodes.
Bella, for her part, is firmly back in the wrestling spotlight. After returning to WWE full-time, she’s currently involved in a high-profile storyline opposite Women’s World Champion Stephanie Vaquer. The two recently clashed at Survivor Series: WarGames, where Vaquer retained the title.
Bella’s comeback marks a new chapter after a turbulent personal year, including her 2024 divorce from former Dancing with the Stars pro Artem Chigvintsev. The former couple shares joint custody of their son.
DeJean, meanwhile, continues to establish himself as a key piece of the Eagles’ defense. Following the win over the Raiders—Philadelphia’s first after a three-game skid—the second-year cornerback sits near the top of the team’s defensive stats, ranking second in tackles with 79, alongside 12 pass deflections and an interception.
But as of this writing, neither Bella nor DeJean has commented on the dating rumors.