Nikki Bella’s status for WrestleMania 42 remained uncertain heading into the April 17 episode of SmackDown, but a late update suggests she’s not ready to tap out just yet.
With the Bella Twins advertised for a high-stakes Fatal Four-Way tag team match in Las Vegas on April 18, questions around Nikki’s fitness have become one of the weekend’s biggest wildcards — and the clock is ticking.
Nikki Bella pushes through injury ahead of WrestleMania 42
During a SmackDown promo, Brie Bella addressed the situation, making it clear her sister isn’t backing down despite an ankle injury suffered on March 27. “Even with Nikki fighting through an injury, we are showing up,” Brie said, reinforcing their legacy as trailblazers in the division.
She added, “Nikki’s rehabbing and fighting like hell to get back in the ring… At WrestleMania, we are not here to remind people who we once are. It’s to show people who we still are.” While not an official medical clearance, the message was clear — Nikki is aiming to compete, even if she’s not at 100 percent.
Reports indicate Nikki has been dealing with the injury while wearing a walking boot and was previously considered “not medically cleared.”
However, she has stated she plans to rest until showtime, hoping to be ready when the bell rings — a strategy that could either be clutch or come down to the final count.
The Bella Twins are scheduled to challenge reigning champions Nia Jax and Lash Legend, alongside teams of Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss and Bayley & Lyra Valkyria.
Paige rumored to be a potential replacement option
At the same time, contingency plans appear to be in place. According to reports from PWInsider and Cageside Seats, Paige has re-signed with WWE and could step in as Brie’s partner if Nikki is unable to compete.
While WWE has not confirmed this on-screen, the possibility looms large — a backup plan waiting in the wings like a surprise entrant ready to tag in.
For now, Nikki Bella remains in a race against time. WrestleMania 42 may reveal whether determination is enough to overcome the injury — or if plans will need to pivot at the last moment.
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