Nikki Garcia is doing her best to put her husband, Artem Chigvintsev‘s arrest behind her. Last week, the DWTS pro was put behind bars on a felony domestic violence charge. For the first time since the drama, Garcia has returned to the spotlight and is sending a message about the state of her marriage.
The former WWE star appeared at Netflix’s Joey Chestnut vs. Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef hotdog eating contest in Las Vegas. Garcia, who served as co-host alongside Rob Riggle, seemed in good spirits at the Labor Day event. When she was introduced on stage, the 40-year-old declared, “I’m so happy to be here.” The retired wrestler opted for a red waistcoat and pants ensemble, but her wedding ring was nowhere in sight. Luckily, Garcia didn’t have to worry about explaining that due to the overwhelming love from the crowd. Per Page Six, supporters in the audience cheered her on, with one fan shouting, “Love you, Nikki,” to which she replied, “Oh, I love you too.”
Garcia’s presence comes just days after authorities arrested her husband in Napa Valley, California, on a corporal injury charge. The identity of the victim remains unknown because they asked for total confidentiality. However, no visible injuries were seen on Garcia’s body during her hosting gig.
Artem Chigvintsev’s 911 Call Reveals Heated Argument With Nikki Garcia
Chigvintsev was released from jail on a $25,000 bail hours after his arrest. Details surrounding the incident have since come to light. Before his arrest, the Russian choreographer placed a 911 call seeking medical intervention. He reportedly panicked about the injuries he had inflicted on the alleged victim. However, he later changed his mind, calling off his request while telling authorities he got into a heated fight with Garcia. In the 911 call audio obtained by TMZ, the dispatcher could be heard saying:
“Initially came in as requesting medical, but now he is stating he got into an argument with his wife and his wife threw shoes at rp [reporting party]. There is a child on scene. Medical en route. There’s an active 415 [disturbing the peace] in the background responsible.”
Sources close to the couple say the arrest comes as no surprise, as their marriage has been “volatile” for a while. In a statement after the arrest, Garcia asked for privacy. Chigvintsev has yet to be seen in public.
