Nikki Bella’s Bold Ambitions: From WWE Icons to Taylor Swift and Serena Williams

Los Angeles, USA – WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Bella is making it clear: the world of professional wrestling always holds surprises, and she’s ready for them. In a candid interview, Bella expressed her eagerness to step back into the squared circle, not just against current WWE powerhouses, but also against some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment, including Taylor Swift and Serena Williams.

“When Liv [Morgan] came out like a fireball last night, I was like ‘Oh s***, okay,’” Nikki told “Sports Illustrated,” recalling a recent encounter on “WWE Raw.” She’s keen on a “dream match” with Liv Morgan, a possibility that was temporarily sidelined due to Morgan’s shoulder injury. Bella also has her sights set on a long-desired clash with Rhea Ripley, a match she’s envisioned for years. “I think one day it would be incredible to work Rhea Ripley. I’ve been saying this for the past four or five years. I would really love to do something with her, but I don’t want to be a good girl when I do.” Bella last competed in the 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble, entering at the coveted number 30 spot.

Celebrity Showdowns: A Ring for Legends

Beyond the traditional wrestling roster, Bella revealed her ambitious desires for celebrity matchups. Topping her list is tennis icon Serena Williams. “The first person that comes to mind is Serena Williams. That would be so cool, especially now her in her mom era. What we saw at the Super Bowl, she has that sass and she has that stage presence.”

And for a truly electrifying crossover, Bella proposed a showdown with music superstar Taylor Swift. “Taylor Swift would be really fun, but I’d have to be in my bad girl era. We could talk about the eras. She would have the Swifties behind her. I would have the Bella Army.”

The Enduring Legacy of the Divas Era

The article also takes a nostalgic look back at the “Divas Era” of WWE, highlighting the transformative impact of these glamorous and fierce women on professional wrestling. From engaging in various gimmick matches to gracing magazine covers, these women brought mainstream attention to the sport. The term “Diva” eventually faded with the advent of the “Women’s Revolution” in wrestling, a movement spurred by fans demanding more recognition for female athletes.

Many of today’s women’s wrestlers credit the Divas for laying the groundwork for their careers. The piece then details the remarkable transformations of several former Divas, showcasing their lives beyond the ring:

Kaitlyn (Celeste Bonin): Now a health and “life optimization” coach, Bonin has embraced a punk-inspired look and a healthy lifestyle after overcoming past struggles. She remains open to a wrestling return.
Kelly Kelly (Barbie Blank Coba): The former youngest Diva on the roster is now a married mother of twins, still maintaining her model looks and making occasional WWE appearances.
Molly Holly (Nora Benshoof): A WWE Hall of Famer, Molly Holly has transitioned to a backstage producer role within the company, helping shape the next generation of female talent.

Sable (Rena Lesnar): One of the most iconic sex symbols of the Attitude Era, Sable has retired from the public eye, making rare appearances alongside her husband, Brock Lesnar.

Melina (Melina Perez): Known for her unique entrance and in-ring prowess, Melina now sports a trendy bob and is the director of wrestling operations for Ultimate Women Of Wrestling.
Candice Michelle (Candice Michelle Beckman): A former Go Daddy Girl and Playboy cover model, Michelle is now an emotional alignment specialist and a mother of three.
Jacqueline (Jacqueline Moore): A trailblazing African American WWE Cruiserweight champion, Jacqueline is enjoying retirement and remains active on social media.
Jillian Hall: Recognizable for her “wanna-be pop star” gimmick, Hall now embraces a more natural look and is a happy mother of two.
Jazz (Carlene Begnaud): A two-time Women’s Champion, Jazz now owns a wrestling promotion and training school, dedicating her experience to future wrestlers.
Ariel (Shelly Martinez): The former “vampire” Diva has adopted a fresh-faced, natural look and runs her own website with exclusive content.

Maxine (Karlee Leilani Perez): The original Maxine has pursued an acting career and continues to wrestle on the independent scene.
Dawn Marie: Known for her controversial storylines, Dawn Marie has since become a nurse and is passionate about holistic healing.

Debra (Debra Marshall): A former beauty pageant winner and manager, Debra continues to make appearances at conventions, aging gracefully.
Eva Marie (Natalie Eva Marie): The “All Red Everything” star is now a fitness model, frequently changing her hair color and showcasing her toned physique.
Madusa/Alundra Blayze (Debrah Miceli): An iconic figure in both WWF and WCW, Madusa is now a producer for the National Wrestling Alliance and a former monster truck driver.

Nikki Bella’s aspirations for new challenges, coupled with the enduring legacies of these pioneering women, underscore the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of women’s professional wrestling.