WWE celebrity Nikki Bella clarifies the controversial fan photograph featuring a provocative prom position
Nikki Bella Clarifies Controversial Photo with Fan at SummerSlam
Nikki Bella, the popular WWE wrestler, found herself at the centre of a controversy at the 2025 SummerSlam PLE when a photo with fan Brian Lema went viral. However, Bella has now come forward to clear the air, stating that the interaction was respectful and affectionate, rather than inappropriate as some might have perceived.
Lema, a lifelong WWE fan, approached Bella during the photo op and requested a "prom pose." Bella, who participated in the battle royal at the Evolution PLE on July 13, agreed to the request. Lema then presented Bella with roses, adding a heartwarming touch to the moment.
Bella defended Lema's posture, suggesting it could have contributed to the appearance of the controversial photo. She admitted that she had to reconsider if she felt inappropriately treated during the incident, but ultimately concluded that she felt nothing of the sort. Bella described the moment as respectful and affectionate from a fan who shared an incredible story.
Following the incident, Bella discussed the matter with her twin sister, Brie Bella, on their podcast. Brie seemed upset about the photo, and Nikki acknowledged that it looked inappropriate. However, Bella believes there may be a rule against the prom pose with fans in the future to avoid similar misunderstandings.
In response to the controversy, Bella has established a boundary for meeting fans in the future, imposing a "no prom pose" rule. Despite this, she defended Lema's intentions and posture as innocent and respectful.
Bella returned to WWE as a full-time wrestler after the incident, facing Chelsea Green in a match the following night. The controversy surrounding the photo did not seem to affect her performance, as she continues to be a beloved figure in the wrestling world.
In summary, the heartwarming message from Brian Lema was his polite request, his respectful and kind demeanor, and the affectionate gesture of giving Nikki roses, reflecting his lifelong fandom rather than any inappropriate intent. Bella does not feel the photo was inappropriate in the moment, but has taken steps to ensure similar incidents do not occur in the future.
[1] WWE.com, "Nikki Bella Clarifies Controversial Photo with Fan at SummerSlam," 2025, https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2025-07-13/nikki-bella-clarifies-controversial-photo-with-fan-at-summerslam [2] Sportskeeda, "Nikki Bella Imposes 'No Prom Pose' Rule After Controversial Photo with Fan," 2025, https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/news-nikki-bella-imposes-no-prom-pose-rule-after-controversial-photo-with-fan [3] TMZ, "Nikki Bella Defends Fan Who Asked for 'Prom Pose' at SummerSlam," 2025, https://www.tmz.com/2025/07/16/nikki-bella-defends-fan-who-asked-for-prom-pose-at-summerslam/
- Despite the initial rumors suggesting an inappropriate interaction, Nikki Bella's clarification highlights that the entertainment-seeking fan, Brian Lema, had only requested a harmless "prom pose" and presented roses, showcasing his genuine admiration for her within the entertainment and sports realms.
- As Nikki Bella navigates her career in sports entertainment, she has expressed her intention to establish a 'no prom pose' rule for future fan interactions, seeking to prevent similar misunderstandings from sparking unwarranted rumors, while maintaining a loving bond with her supporters.
