The world of professional wrestling is built on a foundation of kayfabe, rumor, and real-life drama that often blurs the line between story and reality. One of the most persistent and intriguing backstage rumors circulating among the WWE Universe is the alleged “ban” of former Divas Champion Brie Bella. The speculation, often repeated as fact by fans, suggests that Brie is persona non grata in WWE not because of anything she did, but because of her husband, Bryan Danielson (fka Daniel Bryan), and his role as a top executive and star in rival promotion All Elite Wrestling (AEW).
Now, adding fuel to this speculative fire, reports suggest that her twin sister, Nikki Bella, is actively campaigning behind the scenes to see if the door has opened for Brie’s potential return. But how much of this is true, and how much is a work of internet fiction?
The Origin of the Rumor: Guilt by Association?
The rumor mill began churning the moment Bryan Danielson made his shocking debut for AEW in 2021. As a beloved WWE champion whose career was famously cut short by injury only to be miraculously revived, his move to the competition was a seismic shift in the industry. He has since become one of AEW’s most vital players, both in the ring and as a backstage creative voice.
In wrestling’s often-tribal landscape, the idea that a superstar’s spouse could be indirectly punished for their partner’s career choices is a compelling, if controversial, narrative. The theory posits that WWE, a company known for protecting its own intellectual property and competitive edge, would be hesitant to feature Brie Bella on its programming while her husband is a flagship star for Tony Khan’s rival empire. The fear, as speculated by insiders, is that it could inadvertently promote AEW or create an uncomfortable conflict of interest.
Is There Any Truth to the “Ban”?
It is crucial to distinguish between a hardline “ban” and a simple lack of creative plans or mutual agreement not to work together.
There is no official public record of WWE ever stating that Brie Bella is banned. WWE has a history of mending fences with individuals who have left for rival promotions, especially talents as popular and marketable as The Bella Twins. The Bellas, through their Total Divas and Total Bellas fame, transcend wrestling and bring a mainstream audience that WWE covets.
A more likely scenario than a punitive ban is a simple business decision. Bringing Brie back for a one-off appearance or a storyline might be seen as logistically complex. Would she be asked to reference her husband? How would they explain his absence? In the era of “reality-esque” storytelling, ignoring the elephant in the room—Danielson’s very public and very successful AEW career—might break the audience’s suspension of disbelief. For WWE, it might be easier to avoid the situation altogether than to navigate it.
Furthermore, Brie herself has been happily retired from in-ring competition, focusing on her family, her wine brand, and her various business ventures with Nikki. Her absence from WWE could very well be a personal choice rather than an imposed exile.
Nikki Bella’s Campaign: Paving the Way for a Reunion
This is where the story gets interesting. Nikki Bella has been openly vocal about her desire to see The Bella Twins return to WWE for one final match, specifically aiming for a spot in the WWE Women’s Tag Team Division or even a dream match at a future WrestleMania.
In various interviews and on her podcast, Nikki has expressed that she is constantly “in talks” with WWE Chairman Vince McMahon and Head of Talent Relations John Laurinaitis. She has stated that she “bugs them every few months” about a potential return for both of them.
Nikki’s persistent campaigning suggests two things:
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The Door Isn’t Closed: The fact that Nikki feels comfortable and has a line of communication open indicates that there is no bad blood between her and the company. If Brie were truly blacklisted, it’s unlikely Nikki would be so public and positive about her negotiations.
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It’s a Package Deal: Nikki’s entire push is for a Bella Twins return. Her mission isn’t to go back alone; it’s to bring her sister with her. This puts direct pressure on WWE management to consider the situation with Brie and, by extension, the “AEW issue.”
The Precedent: WWE’s History with “Rival” Families
If WWE were to truly ban performers based on their spouses’ affiliations, they would be limiting their own talent pool significantly.
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The Case of Renee Paquette: The esteemed former WWE interviewer is married to AEW’s biggest star, Jon Moxley (fka Dean Ambrose). Yet, Paquette has appeared on WWE programming post-departure, notably being interviewed on the WWE Network and even having her podcast featured. She is not banned.
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The Case of Andrade El Idolo: While Andrade was in AEW, his wife and fellow WWE superstar Charlotte Flair remained one of the top champions and most featured performers on the entire WWE roster. Her status was completely unaffected.
This precedent heavily suggests that WWE is pragmatic. They value top talent and marketable stars above petty grudges. Charlotte Flair is too valuable to punish for her husband’s choices. Similarly, The Bella Twins’ brand is incredibly valuable.
Conclusion: Hope for the Bella Army?
So, is Brie Bella banned from WWE? The evidence points to it being more of a convenient internet rumor than a confirmed fact. It is far more probable that her absence is a combination of her retirement, a lack of a compelling creative storyline that navigates the real-world complexities of her family life, and perhaps a temporary mutual understanding to avoid a tricky situation.
Nikki Bella’s very public campaign is the strongest indicator that a return is possible. She is effectively doing the groundwork, testing the waters, and keeping the idea alive in the minds of both fans and WWE executives. The ball appears to be in WWE’s court. The company must decide if the massive pop and mainstream attention a Bella Twins return would generate is worth navigating the subtle acknowledgment that one-half of the team is married to the competition.
For the millions in the “Bella Army,” the hope remains alive. In WWE, never say never. If the story is right and the business makes sense, the supposed “ban” will likely vanish faster than a Bella Twin shouting “Brie Mode!” on her way to the ring.
