Nikki Garcia Clears Up Romance Rumors with Cooper DeJean: ‘I Haven’t Even Shared a Kiss’
Nikki Garcia; Cooper DeJean.
Credit :
Jamie McCarthy/Getty;Brooke Sutton/Getty
NEED TO KNOW
- Nikki Garcia is seemingly denying rumors of a romance with Cooper DeJean.
- The WWE star, 42, and Philadelphia Eagles cornerback, 22, were featured together in an Instagram post.
- “I haven’t even kissed someone in so long. It’s, like, kind of crazy,” Nikki remarked during the December 18 episode of her podcast, The Nikki & Brie Show.
Nikki Garcia is addressing rumors regarding her alleged romantic involvement with Cooper DeJean, the Philadelphia Eagles cornerback who is two decades her junior. The speculation followed an Instagram post featuring both individuals.
During the December 18 episode of her podcast, The Nikki & Brie Show, Garcia suggested she is not currently dating, noting a significant lack of intimate moments in her life.
“It’s crazy because I actually haven’t been touched or done anything in so long,” she commented during a discussion with her twin sister, Brie Garcia. “It’s funny when people call me a wh— when I actually haven’t had intimacy in a really long time, [or even thought] of kissing.”
Garcia further elaborated, saying, “I haven’t even kissed someone in so long. It’s, like, kind of crazy. I was thinking of this last night. Do I know how to kiss?”
Brie reassured her, stating, “You do. It’s like riding a bike,” to which Nikki humorously responded, “I’m about to make out with my pillow to make sure I still got it.”
Nikki Garcia in October 2025.
Jesse Grant/Getty
On December 16, Garcia shared a video on Instagram showcasing her recent trip to Philadelphia. The montage included footage of her smiling and posing near DeJean’s locker.
In the same video, the two were seen enjoying themselves, dancing to Alex Warren’s song “Ordinary.” Garcia expressed gratitude for the people surrounding her, writing, “So blessed for the people around me, new friends and old, who make life so special and fun,” while also being a mother to her five-year-old son, Matteo.
Cooper DeJean, who recently celebrated his 22nd birthday with a standout performance in the Super Bowl, reacted to Nikki’s post with supportive emojis.
Garcia shares Matteo with her ex-husband, Artem Chigvintsev, a professional dancer known for his role on Dancing with the Stars. Following a tumultuous period that included an arrest at their home, their divorce was finalized in May, with Garcia required to pay Chigvintsev a lump sum and monthly child support.
Despite the challenges of their separation, Garcia has acknowledged Chigvintsev’s positive role in co-parenting, stating, “I have to give it to Artem, who’s been amazing in adapting to my schedule.” She emphasized that he allows her to spend more time with their son.
Garcia’s recent disclosures reveal a personal side as she navigates both life as a celebrity and a devoted mother.
DeJean was previously linked to college student Steph Wilfawn, who celebrated his selection in the NFL Draft in April 2024.
