Nikki Bella made her return to WWE on the July 24 episode of SmackDown. She appeared after Brie Bella defeated Lainey Reid in a singles match.
Following the bout, members of Fatal Influence attacked Brie Bella and Paige. Nikki Bella entered the ring to assist them and stop the assault. She then issued a challenge for a six woman tag team match at SummerSlam.
The match will feature Nikki Bella, Brie Bella, and Paige against Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, and Lainey Reid of Fatal Influence. SummerSlam is scheduled for August 1 and 2 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.
Nikki Bella had been absent from competition due to an ankle injury sustained on the March 28 episode of SmackDown. The injury forced her to miss WrestleMania 42. Her return marks the first time she has appeared in the ring since that incident.
Brie Bella and Paige had been involved in ongoing segments with Fatal Influence in recent weeks. Nikki’s arrival adds her to the group for the SummerSlam contest. The three women stood together in the ring after the challenge was accepted.
WWE officials confirmed the match during the broadcast. The episode also included other qualifying matches and storyline developments leading into SummerSlam. Nikki Bella’s return brings the Bella Twins back together with Paige for the multi person matchup.
Nikki Bella’s appearance on SmackDown sets up the six woman tag as one of the scheduled bouts.