The news of Artem Chigvintsev’s domestic violence arrest has left his friend and former Dancing With the Stars pro, Cheryl Burke, in disbelief.
In an interview with Yahoo Entertainment, the Sex, Lies, and Spray Tans podcast host expressed concern for Chigvintsev’s estranged wife, Nikki Garcia, and their 4-year-old son, Matteo, as they face a very public divorce.
Burke admitted that the situation caught her off guard, calling it unfortunate. She shared her hope that all parties involved—Nikki, Artem, and Matteo—can find time to focus on their healing during this challenging period.
Nikki Garcia filed for divorce from Artem Chigvintsev on September 11, requesting legal and physical custody of their son Matteo, as the couple navigates the public fallout
Chigvintsev was arrested on Aug. 29 in Napa, California, following a felony domestic violence incident that occurred at the couple’s home just three days after their second wedding anniversary. Garcia filed for divorce on Sept. 11, sparking public discussion about the private matter.
Burke acknowledged the difficult circumstances, stating that the situation had escalated from being a personal issue to a public topic.
Having experienced a public divorce herself, she expressed empathy for how overwhelming the process can be, though she was careful not to directly compare the two situations.
After less than three years of marriage, Burke filed for divorce from actor Matthew Lawrence in February 2022.
Chigvintsev and Garcia first crossed paths in 2017 while partnered on Dancing With the Stars. At the time, Garcia, known in WWE as Nikki Bella, was engaged to John Cena. However, the two got together the following year after Garcia ended her relationship with Cena.
Neither Garcia nor Chigvintsev has made a public statement about the August incident. Although the victim’s identity was initially withheld, media reports confirmed that it was Garcia. Her representative asked for privacy for Garcia and her family.
Garcia is seeking legal and physical custody of their son, while Chigvintsev has requested joint custody and spousal support.
His attorney, Ilona Antonyan, informed People that Chigvintsev will not be commenting on the ongoing legal proceedings, emphasizing that both parties are committed to co-parenting and acting in the best interest of their child.
Antonyan further explained that Chigvintsev’s request for spousal support was not driven by financial gain but was more of a procedural step, intending to settle matters amicably.
