Nikki Bella may be much closer to an in‑ring WWE return than anyone expected.

The WWE Hall of Famer has been sidelined since suffering an ankle injury during the Bella Twins’ match against Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair on the March 27 episode of SmackDown. The injury forced her out of WrestleMania 42, where Paige stepped in as Brie Bella’s partner and went on to win the Women’s Tag Team Championship.

Nikki previously shared that she hoped to be cleared in time for the Night of Champions premium live event on June 27. At the time, she said trainers had only approved light training — things like riding her bike for cardio and performing basic lifts.

But what she posted on Instagram tells a very different story.

Nikki shared a video of herself performing multiple heavy barbell back squats, moving the weight with confidence and no visible hesitation. The clip was far beyond what would be considered “light training,” and it immediately sparked speculation that her recovery is ahead of schedule.

For someone coming off an ankle injury serious enough to remove her from WrestleMania, heavy squats are a major indicator of stability, strength, and readiness. The ease with which she executed the reps suggests she may be nearing full clearance.

Nikki has not publicly confirmed a return date, but the training footage strongly implies that her comeback could happen sooner than originally projected. With the Women’s Tag Team Championship picture heating up and Brie Bella currently active alongside Paige, the timing of Nikki’s recovery could open the door for a major storyline moment.

For now, fans will be watching her social media closely — because if her latest gym clip is any indication, Nikki Bella is almost back.

Nikki Bella Shows Strong Recovery Progress, WWE Return Could Come Soon

AdvertisementAdvertisement