Nikki and Brie say the term carries a different meaning after years of progress for women in WWE
Summary
– Brie Bella says the Diva label became uncomfortable during WWE’s fight for equality
– She believes women have earned equal recognition through more matches and main events
– Nikki Bella views “Diva” as a modern expression of confidence and main-character energy
Nikki Bella and Brie Bella believe WWE’s retired “Diva” label can return without erasing the progress made by the women’s division.
During an interview with Joey Karni, the twins discussed whether there is a balance between embracing the Diva identity and being recognized as WWE Superstars.
Brie explained that she initially loved being called a Diva. However, the term eventually developed a negative reputation as WWE’s women fought to receive the same opportunities and respect as the men.
Being called a Superstar became important because it represented equality. Women wanted to be recognized as legitimate competitors rather than placed in a separate category that could limit how audiences viewed them.
Brie believes the division has now reached a much stronger position. Women regularly headline major events, receive significant television time, and occasionally have more matches than the men on SmackDown.
That progress has changed how she views the old label. Brie said younger wrestlers can now embrace the term without carrying the same baggage it carried during the Divas era.
She also believes many current performers use “Diva” as a tribute because they grew up watching Total Divas. Calling themselves Divas allows them to celebrate stars such as Natalya, the Funkadactyls, and The Bella Twins.
Nikki offered a more modern interpretation. She compared the term to confident labels such as “baddie” and said calling yourself a Diva represents making yourself the most important person in the room.
The Bella Twins are not suggesting that WWE reverse the women’s revolution. Instead, they believe women have already proven they belong on equal footing, allowing the Diva identity to return as a symbol of confidence rather than limitation.

