Nikki Garcia made a stunning return to the spotlight, just days after her husband Artem Chigvintsev’s shocking arrest for domestic violence.
The WWE pro, 40, co-hosted the live Netflix event, Chestnut vs. Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef, alongside comedian Rob Riggle, marking her first public appearance since Chigvintsev’s arrest last week.
Garcia beamed with joy as she took the stage in a bright red sleeveless jumpsuit, her jet black hair cascading down in loose waves. She seemed unfazed by the recent controversy surrounding her husband’s arrest.
Nikki Garcia returned to the spotlight after her husband Artem Chigvintsev was arrested for domestic violence
Nikki and co-host Rob Riggle (R) were pictured with winner Joey Chestnut after he emerged victorious
During her introduction, Garcia responded to an audience member’s sweet shout-out, saying, “Thank you Rob! Thank you everyone, I’m so happy to be here! And in just about 40 minutes – oh I love you too!”
The event marked a triumphant return for Garcia, who seemed to put the recent drama behind her.
However, the celebration was marred by the news of Chigvintsev’s arrest on Thursday in Napa, California, on suspicion of felony domestic violence. He was released from jail later that afternoon after his bail was set for $25,000.
According to a radio dispatch, Chigvintsev made a 911 call to request medical assistance, claiming that Garcia had thrown shoes at him during the alleged incident. The dispatcher also reported that there was a child on the scene.
On Monday, Garcia, 40, co-hosted Chestnut vs. Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef, a live Netflix event – her first public appearance since Chigvintsev’s arrest last week
Garcia and comedian Rob Riggle are in Las Vegas hosting a hot dog eating competition between Joey Chestnut and Takeru Kobayashi
Chigvintsev’s arrest came after he called 911, but later took back his statement, claiming that no medical assistance was needed. However, law enforcement continued their response, and upon arrival, they witnessed physical evidence of domestic violence.
The Napa County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the arrest, stating that Chigvintsev was cooperative and did not resist arrest.
Garcia’s representative has asked for privacy for the family during this time, while Chigvintsev’s future on Dancing With The Stars remains uncertain.
The couple, who share a four-year-old son, Matteo, celebrated their second wedding anniversary just three days before Chigvintsev’s arrest.