Nikki Bella Returns to In-Ring Training During Ankle Injury Recovery

Nikki Bella is back in the ring — at least in a training capacity — as the WWE Hall of Famer continues her rehabilitation from an ankle injury that has kept her sidelined since before WrestleMania 42.

Bella took to her Instagram Stories on Monday, July 6, to share photos and videos of herself back inside the squared circle and participating in training sessions. While no official return timetable has been announced, the footage represents a meaningful milestone in her recovery and signals that the rehabilitation process is trending in the right direction.

The injury proved costly at WrestleMania 42, forcing Bella out of a planned Women’s Tag Team Championship match. With Nikki unavailable, a returning Paige stepped in to partner with Brie Bella, and the two sisters-in-law made the most of the opportunity — capturing the Women’s Tag Team titles on the night.

Nikki, a former Divas Champion and one of the most recognizable names in WWE history, has not competed since the ankle setback derailed what would have been a high-profile WrestleMania moment. Getting back into a ring for training, while not the same as in-ring competition, is the kind of visible progress that tends to precede a return announcement.

There is still no word from WWE on when she might be cleared to compete, but the signs are encouraging. Wrestling fans who have been waiting on a Nikki Bella comeback have reason to be cautiously optimistic that her absence may not last much longer.