When WWE legend Nikki Bella stepped into the stands of Highmark Stadium during the Buffalo Bills vs. Philadelphia Eagles showdown, she wasn’t just there as a fan—she was making a statement. Clad in a custom-fitted No. 2 Eagles jersey with “DEJEAN” emblazoned across the back, Bella sent social media into a frenzy. Was this a bold fashion choice… or a not-so-subtle declaration of affection for rookie cornerback Cooper DeJean?
The post, which quickly went viral, is just the latest clue in a growing trail of breadcrumbs that has fans convinced the Nikki Bella Cooper DeJean dating rumors are more than just gossip. From locker room visits to shared celebrity appearances, the connection between the wrestling superstar and the NFL’s rising defensive talent is becoming impossible to ignore.
Table of Contents
- The Jersey That Started It All
- Timeline of Their Mysterious Connection
- The John Cena Interception That Sealed the Deal
- Who Is Cooper DeJean? The NFL Rookie Making Waves
- Nikki Bella’s Life Beyond the Ring
- How Fans and Media Are Reacting
- What This Could Mean for Both Stars
- Final Verdict: Just Friends or Something More?
- Sources
The Jersey That Started It All
Nikki Bella’s Instagram story during the Eagles’ Week 15 clash with the Bills was seemingly innocuous—a fan cheering on her team. But the detail screamed intention: she was wearing Cooper DeJean’s official game jersey, perfectly tailored and styled, not a generic team shirt .
For context, DeJean wears No. 2, a number not typically associated with star players. Choosing it—specifically his—was a deliberate move that didn’t go unnoticed by eagle-eyed followers. Comments flooded in: “Is this a date?” “New boyfriend much?” “They’re totally together!”
Timeline of Their Mysterious Connection
This isn’t an isolated incident. A pattern has emerged over recent weeks:
- Locker Room Access: Bella was spotted in the Eagles’ post-game locker room—a rare privilege usually reserved for family or significant others .
- WWE Appearance: DeJean attended a recent WWE live event in Philadelphia, sitting ringside. Bella later posted a cryptic “Great to see familiar faces!” story .
- Social Media Hints: While neither has confirmed a relationship, both have liked each other’s posts and used similar location tags in Philly.
The John Cena Interception That Sealed the Deal
Here’s where it gets meta. During a crucial game against the Dallas Cowboys, DeJean intercepted a pass and immediately dropped into the iconic John Cena “You Can’t See Me” hand-waving celebration—a direct nod to Bella’s famous ex-fiancé .
The internet exploded. Was this a playful tribute? A signal to Bella? Or just a fun pop-culture reference? Either way, the timing—coming just days before Bella wore his jersey—feels too synchronized to be coincidental. For a rookie, referencing the ex of a woman you’ve been seen with is either incredibly bold… or incredibly telling.
Who Is Cooper DeJean? The NFL Rookie Making Waves
Before the rumors, DeJean was already making headlines on the field. The 22-year-old, drafted in the second round from the University of Iowa, has quickly become a standout in the Eagles’ secondary. Known for his speed, coverage skills, and big-play ability, he’s a key part of Philadelphia’s Super Bowl aspirations .
Off the field, he’s kept a low profile—until now. His sudden appearance in Bella’s orbit has catapulted him into the celebrity spotlight, for better or worse.
Nikki Bella’s Life Beyond the Ring
Since stepping away from full-time WWE competition in 2022, Bella has built a multifaceted career as an entrepreneur, TV personality, and mother. Her high-profile relationship with John Cena ended in 2023 after a six-year engagement, leaving her publicly single .
Known for her glamorous lifestyle and strong social media presence, Bella has never shied away from sharing her life—but she’s also fiercely protective of her privacy, especially when it comes to new relationships. That’s likely why she hasn’t addressed the DeJean rumors directly… yet.
How Fans and Media Are Reacting
The reaction has been overwhelmingly curious, if not supportive:
- WWE fans are thrilled to see Bella linked to another athlete.
- Eagles supporters joke that DeJean just secured “immortal status” in Philly.
- Commentators note the age gap (Bella is 40, DeJean is 22) but emphasize mutual respect.
For more on celebrity sports romances, check out our feature at [INTERNAL_LINK:celebrity-sports-relationships].
What This Could Mean for Both Stars
If the relationship is real, it’s a high-stakes blend of fame, sport, and public scrutiny. Bella brings media savvy and business acumen; DeJean offers youthful energy and athletic prestige. Together, they could become a power couple in the crossover world of sports and entertainment.
However, the intense spotlight could also strain a fledgling romance. Both would need to navigate privacy boundaries carefully—especially with Bella’s young son and DeJean’s rising NFL career.
Final Verdict: Just Friends or Something More?
While neither Nikki Bella nor Cooper DeJean has confirmed they’re dating, the evidence is mounting. From the personalized jersey and locker room access to the John Cena celebration and shared events, the signs point to more than a casual friendship.
In the world of celebrity, sometimes actions speak louder than words. And right now, Nikki Bella is wearing her heart—or at least DeJean’s number—on her sleeve.