Cooper DeJean just broke his silence on his casual dating situation with Nikki Bella. The 22-year-old Philadelphia Eagles cornerback and 42-year-old WWE Hall of Famer have confirmed they’re exploring a romantic connection despite a 20-year age gap that’s sparked heated debate. But here’s the twist: neither is calling it serious.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Ages: DeJean is 22, Bella is 42, creating a 20-year gap
- Status: Confirmed as casual dating by TMZ on January 6, 2026
- Connection: Bella is a devoted Eagles fan who has worn DeJean’s No. 33 jersey
- Both Single: Sources say Bella remains very single despite the dating buzz
The Age Gap That Has Everyone Talking
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The 20-year age difference between Cooper DeJean and Nikki Bella has ignited social media fury. Bella was already a WWE superstar when DeJean was born in 2003. Sports insiders say the pairing sparked immediate online criticism and heated debates about age-appropriate relationships. Yet sources close to both stars insist they’ve been casually enjoying each other’s company without commitment pressures.
The Eagles cornerback represents a dramatic departure from Bella’s recent relationship history. Her ex-husband Artem Chigvintsev, a professional dancer, was much closer to her age. The shift has left fans speculating about whether Bella is intentionally seeking something different post-divorce.
How This Romance Caught Fire
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Nikki Bella began fueling rumors when she attending Philadelphia Eagles games in December 2025, sporting her boyfriend’s No. 33 jersey. The WWE Hall of Famer has always been vocal about her love for the Eagles, but her new presence at games took on fresh significance. DeJean, only 22, was spotted spending quality time with the 42-year-old entertainer at various outings. By early January 2026, the rumor mill was running wild across sports and entertainment circles.
What started as whispers in late 2025 became official news when TMZ reported on January 6, 2026 that the two had confirmed their casual dating status to sources. Bella even shared a rare mom post with her five-year-old son Matteo amid the relationship headlines, signaling she’s balancing parenthood with her newly public romantic life.
The Players Behind the Headlines
Cooper DeJean rose to prominence through an outstanding college football career at the University of Iowa. The cornerback and punt returner earned unanimous All-American honors in 2023 and was drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles. At just 22 years old, he’s already become one of the Eagles’ top defensive players.
| Factor | Cooper DeJean | Nikki Bella |
| Age | 22 years old | 42 years old |
| Profession | NFL Cornerback (Philadelphia Eagles) | WWE Hall of Famer, entertainer |
| Background | Drafted 2024 from Iowa | Divorced from Artem Chigvintsev in 2024 |
Nikki Bella, born Stephanie Nicole Garcia-Colace, is a wrestling legend who has transitioned into mainstream entertainment. She recently made a shocking return to WWE in the Women’s Royal Rumble in 2025. Her divorce from dancer Artem Chigvintsev was finalized in 2024, and sources say she’s explicitly focused on maintaining her single status while casually dating.
“The pair reportedly are casually dating and there is a mutual attraction, but Nikki is still very single.”
— NY Post, reporting on the relationship status
Will This Casual Fling Become Something More?
Multiple sources emphasize that neither DeJean nor Bella is treating this as a serious long-term commitment. The Eagles star is focused on his NFL career resurgence, while Bella is investing energy in her wrestling comeback and her role as a mother to her 5-year-old son. Insiders suggest they’re simply enjoying each other’s company while keeping expectations low. Industry watchers believe the casual nature of their dating is what makes it work for both parties.
The relationship has naturally drawn critics and supporters. Some fans have applauded Bella’s confidence in dating younger men, while others have questioned the age gap dynamics. Entertainment circles remain divided on whether this is a genuine romance or simply celebrity mutual attraction. What remains clear: both are adamant about staying emotionally available and keeping things light.
What’s Next for DeJean and Bella’s Casual Connection?
As January 2026 unfolds, Cooper DeJean and Nikki Bella continue to spark headlines wherever they appear together. Will they transition from casual dating to something more committed, or will they remain confident in their low-pressure arrangement? The NFL season ahead will test their ability to balance demanding careers with their budding romance. Only time will reveal whether this age-gap pairing was a passing moment or the beginning of something substantial.
One thing is certain: this relationship has already become one of 2026’s most talked-about celebrity stories. Fans will be watching closely as both DeJean’s football career and Bella’s entertainment ventures continue to develop. The casual dating confirmation may have settled the rumor debate, but it’s opened an entirely new chapter in celebrity relationship conversations.
Sources
- TMZ – Original report confirming casual dating between Nikki Bella and Cooper DeJean on January 6, 2026
- NY Post – Detailed article on relationship status and age gap scrutiny
- Sporting News – Comprehensive breakdown of the 20-year age difference and relationship timeline
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.