Former WWE star Nikki ‘Bella’ Garcia has obtained a restraining order against husband Artem Chigvintsev after he was arrested for domestic violence on August 29.
Nikki submitted a sworn declaration to the court detailing the incident that led to Chigvintsev’s arrest. The petition was filed and signed off by a judge on Monday. The retired wrestling star has since released a statement to the press, saying that Artem has to be held accountable for his actions:
“Due to the incident that led to Artem’s arrest on August 29, 2024, Nikki has decided to file for a temporary Domestic Violence Restraining Order to protect herself and her son. Although Nikki requested that the Napa District Attorney not file charges against Artem as she did not want him to go to jail, he must still be held accountable for his actions, and Nikki and her son must be protected. Nikki’s number one priority has always been the wellbeing of her son. She is thankful for all of the love and support she has received and continues to ask for privacy for her and her family during this difficult time.”
Chigvintsev posted bail on the same day as his arrest and he has been living with a friend while Nikki and Matteo continue to reside in their Napa Valley home. The restraining order prohibits the Dancing With The Stars participant from coming within 100 yards of Garcia, their son, or their shared home. The only exception is for visitation or exchange of the child per court-ordered visits.
Nikki also requested permission to leave the country with her son for a filming project in London. The request was denied by the judge until a full hearing is held on October 21.
Nikki Garcia and Artem Chigvintsev met on the set of the 2017 season of Dancing With The Stars. The two got married in 2022 and have one son, 4-year-old Matteo. Garcia previously filed for divorce from her husband through lawyer Evan Craig Itzkowitz on Wednesday, September 11.
This news was first reported by TMZ. More details on Nikki’s account of the incident that led to her separation from Artem can be read on the website. Reader discretion is advised as it contains details of domestic violence.
