WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Bella opened up about one of the most surreal moments of her career during a recent appearance on Cody Rhodes’ “What Do You Wanna Talk About?” podcast ahead of SummerSlam 2025.
The trailblazing legend revealed an unexpected encounter with then-President Donald Trump during what she calls her career’s lowest moment – having her WrestleMania match cut at gorilla position.
The Unexpected Presidential Encounter
“I went under the stage just to sit there… I felt the kick on my foot. And I heard, excuse me, young man. And I look up and it is the sitting president of the United States, Donald Trump, who is with his entire family walking by,” Bella recounted to Rhodes, WWE’s top babyface and recent long-term champion.
– Nikki Bella
The incident occurred during a particularly devastating period when Bella and her tag team partner’s highly anticipated WrestleMania match was abruptly canceled moments before they were set to compete.
“That was the worst walk of shame I’ve ever done in my life,” she told Rhodes, describing the emotional aftermath.
– Nikki Bella
Career Low Point Becomes Defining Moment
Bella explained that she retreated under the stage to avoid confronting writers or management while processing her anger and disappointment. The presidential encounter happened as Trump and his family were making their way to participate in the Hall of Fame festivities.
“I literally was like, sorry, excuse me. And I just turned and I’m in full gear. I had, like, my new robe on and everything. Because everyone had new gear, and this was WrestleMania,” she remembered.
– Nikki Bella
Rhodes, who has become one of WWE’s most prominent stars, empathized with the experience, sharing his own feelings from that night.
“I was so angry… that’s the first moment where I was like, I’m out. I am out,” he revealed, though his departure wouldn’t come until years later.
– Nikki Bella
From Setback to Success
The conversation, part of Rhodes’ popular podcast series, highlighted the unpredictable nature of professional wrestling and how career setbacks can lead to unexpected moments. Both wrestlers have since reached the pinnacle of their careers, with Bella making a triumphant return to WWE programming and Rhodes establishing himself as the company’s premier champion.
“I feel like it’s a very large part of the journey,” Bella reflected, demonstrating how even the most devastating professional moments can become meaningful parts of a wrestler’s story.
– Nikki Bella
Cody Rhodes will challenge John Cena for the Undisputed WWE Championship in a highly anticipated Street Fight main event at SummerSlam 2025, aiming to reclaim the title he lost at WrestleMania.
Nikki Bella is scheduled to compete in a tag team storyline, teaming up with Stephanie Vaquer, but her full match details remain unannounced as plans may include recruiting a partner to face Chelsea Green and her allies.