The WWE Hall of Famer is making progress while waiting for a clearer return timeline.
Summary
– Nikki Bella says her ankle recovery is progressing well after reaching a new rehab milestone
– Bella is now focused on rebuilding strength before doctors clear her for a WWE return
– She hopes for positive X-ray results in mid-June but does not want to rush back too soon
Nikki Bella is moving in the right direction after suffering an ankle injury that forced her out of a major WWE moment.
Speaking with USA Today Sports, Bella said her ankle is doing well and revealed that she was able to squat again for the first time during rehab. She joked that the movement was not perfect yet, but the milestone gave her another positive sign.
Bella explained that her physical therapy has now moved into a strengthening phase. Her focus is no longer just on healing the ankle, but also rebuilding the support around it through the feet, toes, hips, knees, calves, quads, and glutes.
The next major step comes in mid-June, when Bella is scheduled to receive X-rays. Those results will show how the bones have healed and help doctors decide when she can safely take the next step toward returning.
Bella said she would love to return by the end of June, but she also knows coming back too soon could create another setback. She wants her strength to match the healing process before stepping back into the ring.
The injury forced Bella out of her planned Women’s Tag Team Championship match at WrestleMania 42. Brie Bella still competed after Paige returned and took Nikki’s place.
Bella has also made it clear that her next run may come with a different attitude. She has said she wants her final WWE stretch to be a heel run built around stronger character work.
For now, Bella’s comeback depends on the mid-June X-rays and how well her strength continues to improve. She wants to return, but she is focused on doing it the right way.
