Nikki Bella made a surprise return to WWE during the July 24, 2026 [1], broadcast of SmackDown in Oakland, California [3].

Bella's return marks a significant comeback for the athlete, who has been a central figure in the women's division. Her absence from the ring had left a void in the roster during a period of high-stakes competition leading into the summer season.

The appearance occurred in Oakland, California [3], during the July 24 [1] episode of the show. This return follows a period of recovery after Bella was sidelined with an ankle injury in March 2026 [1].

Bella had spent the previous months rehabilitating the injury to prepare for her return to active competition. The surprise appearance on SmackDown serves as a catalyst for upcoming storylines as the company builds toward the SummerSlam 2026 event.

While some reports indicated the return occurred on July 31, 2026, multiple sources confirm the event took place during the July 24 [1] broadcast. The timing of the return allows Bella to regain her ring rhythm before facing potential opponents in the coming weeks.

WWE has not yet detailed the specific match stipulations for Bella's next appearances, though her return to the SmackDown brand suggests a renewed focus on the blue brand's women's championship picture.

“Nikki Bella made a surprise return to WWE during the July 24, 2026, broadcast of SmackDown.”

The return of a high-profile veteran like Nikki Bella during the build-up to SummerSlam suggests WWE is leveraging established star power to drive viewership. By returning from a four-month injury hiatus, Bella reintegrates into a shifted landscape, potentially disrupting the current hierarchy of the women's division.