Nikki Bella Shares Injury Update Amid WrestleMania 42 Uncertainty

WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Bella is facing uncertainty regarding her participation in WrestleMania 42 following an ankle injury sustained during a recent match. The injury has sidelined the veteran performer, leaving her status for the upcoming event in question as she awaits definitive medical results.

The situation first gained public attention when Michael Cole mentioned Nikki Bella’s injury during an episode of WWE RAW. However, further details emerged on April 8, 2026, during an appearance by Nikki and her sister, Brie Bella, on the program IRL with Angie Martinez.

Injury Details and Medical Status

During the interview, Nikki Bella described the injury as a sprained ankle but noted that the exact severity remains unclear. She expressed frustration over the situation and confirmed that she has undergone an MRI to determine if the injury is a high sprain or a more significant issue.

No, not at all. I’ve been super bummed out about it. So, as of now, it’s a sprained ankle. We don’t know if it’s a high sprain or something else, so I got an MRI. I’m waiting for the results.

Nikki Bella

Bella revealed that the injury occurred almost immediately after the start of a match. Despite the pain, she managed to finish the contest, a feat she admitted was surprising given the nature of the injury.

Brie Bella provided additional context, describing the chaotic nature of the moment. She highlighted the added pressure of the situation, noting that this was only her second match back in eight years and Nikki’s first tag team match back.

Impact on WrestleMania 42

The timing of the injury is particularly critical as WWE builds toward WrestleMania 42. Bella had been working toward a return for the event, but the current lack of medical clarity has cast a shadow over those plans.

Industry observers and fans had noted her absence from recent WWE programming, which had already sparked concerns regarding her involvement in the spectacle. The confirmation of the ankle injury provides a factual basis for her recent absence from television.

The injury is part of a broader set of challenges facing the build-up to the event, with reports indicating that other factors, such as a Brock Lesnar suspension, are also impacting the road to WrestleMania 42.

Nikki Bella’s ability to compete will depend on the results of her MRI and the subsequent recovery timeline. Until those results are finalized, her role in the event remains unconfirmed.