Nikki Bella Defends Big Child Support to Artem, Slams ‘Karma’ Critics
Nikki Bella is setting the record straight about her divorce settlement with Artem Chigvintsev — and she’s not here for the online hate.
On a recent episode of The Nikki & Brie Show podcast, the WWE star addressed the financial terms of her divorce from Artem, revealing she’ll be paying $3,500 a month in child support for their son, Matteo, plus two lump-sum payments of $100,000 each — one already paid, and the other due by year’s end.
While some critics online cheered the outcome as “karma,” Nikki called out the ignorance behind that take.
She emphasized that the financial agreement wasn’t about punishment but about ensuring Matteo enjoys the same quality of life in both parents’ homes — which is the core intent of child support laws.
She admitted it was tough handing over her “hard-earned money,” but called the settlement fair and even a “win,” noting she could’ve been ordered to pay much more. In fact, the judge praised her success — pointing out it was the first time they’d seen a case where the woman was the higher earner paying support to the man.
Nikki also reminded listeners that the terms can be revisited in court as Matteo grows up.
While TMZ’s coverage of the settlement didn’t thrill her, Nikki clarified that her financial support of Artem reflects her success — not wrongdoing.
The agreement comes after a rocky stretch that included domestic abuse allegations and restraining orders filed by both parties last year.
Despite the past turmoil, Nikki said she and Artem have since reached a healthy place in co-parenting: “At the end of the day, Matteo having both of us in his life is what matters most — not the money.”
Nikki Bella Defends Big Child Support to Artem, Slams ‘Karma’ Critics