Cooper DeJean addressed the circulating rumors about a romantic relationship with WWE star Nikki Bella following multiple sightings together in late 2025. The speculation intensified after Nikki appeared on WWE Raw on February 2 in Philadelphia, where the topic of their alleged connection surfaced amid fan reactions.
Background on Nikki Bella’s Dating Speculations and Public Appearances
Since Nikki Bella’s return to WWE in June last year, questions about her personal life have frequently arisen. Earlier conjecture included rumors about her dating fellow wrestler Grayson Waller, though Nikki publicly denied those claims. In December 2025, Nikki was seen several times with Cooper DeJean, a cornerback for the Philadelphia Eagles, sparking fresh buzz due to their 20-year age difference.
The February 2 episode of WWE Raw took place at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, where Nikki reunited on stage with her twin sister Brie Bella. During the event, Nikki appeared to misinterpret the crowd’s chants of “Coop” as boos; she playfully teased the Philadelphia Eagles instead. Brie corrected her, suggesting the fans were actually chanting for Cooper DeJean. Nikki responded to this by stating,
“Can you blame a girl for having good taste?”
 – Nikki Bella, WWE Superstar
Though neither Nikki nor Cooper confirmed a romantic relationship, her exchange with the Philadelphia crowd reignited discussions among fans about their connection.
Cooper DeJean Offers His Side on the Dating Rumors
Cooper DeJean confronted the swirling rumors directly during a recent appearance on the Pat McAfee Show. When prompted about dating Nikki Bella, the 22-year-old athlete made a concise statement on the subject.
“I don’t think I have a public relationship.”
 – Cooper DeJean, Philadelphia Eagles Cornerback
Host Pat McAfee chose not to press further after hearing DeJean’s comment, signaling the matter should rest based on that clarification.
Meanwhile, Nikki and Brie Bella made it clear on the same WWE Raw broadcast that their focus remains on pursuing the Women’s Tag Team Championship, currently held by Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky.
Other Recent Developments in WWE and Related Wrestling News
Besides the buzz surrounding Nikki Bella and Cooper DeJean, the WWE NXT brand saw Robert Stone assume the interim General Manager role, marking a notable leadership change.
Nikki Bella also spoke about an awkward backstage experience involving her former fiancé, John Cena, reflecting on their past six-year relationship and engagement.
In other WWE news, Liv Morgan expressed regret over crashing her ex-WWE partner’s wedding, while simultaneously defending her recent controversial storyline decisions. Additionally, she revealed the WWE star who intimidates her the most.
Moreover, CM Punk delivered sharp criticism towards the reigning WWE Champion, and the AEW World Championship announced a new number one contender on Dynamite. Chelsea Green reacted to a recent risqué joke made by her husband, Matt Cardona, showcasing the ongoing entertainment and drama surrounding wrestling personalities.
Implications and What to Expect Moving Forward
Cooper DeJean’s brief response regarding the rumors with Nikki Bella may quell some speculation but leaves the door open to continued public interest, especially given their public appearances together. Nikki Bella’s ability to engage with fans while maintaining privacy hints at the challenges WWE stars face balancing personal life and public attention. As both continue their professional careers—Nikki pursuing tag team glory and DeJean advancing in the NFL—their interactions will likely remain a talking point among fans and media.
