In a significant development regarding celebrity couple Artem Chigvintsev and Nikki Garcia, recent court filings reveal that Chigvintsev has formally requested spousal support from Garcia as they navigate their divorce proceedings. The papers, which surfaced on Friday, indicate that the “Dancing with the Stars” performer is also asking Garcia to cover his legal expenses. Furthermore, he has put forth a request for joint legal and physical custody of their young son, Matteo, who is four years old.
Nikki Garcia, better known to many as Nikki Bella, filed for divorce just days prior, seeking sole legal and physical custody of Matteo while allowing Chigvintsev visitation rights. The split follows allegations of domestic violence that occurred at their Napa Valley residence. Reports suggest Chigvintsev, 42, was taken into custody after a series of calls to law enforcement, one of which he later attempted to cancel. Nonetheless, officers arrived at their home for a welfare check, leading to Chigvintsev being booked on a felony domestic violence charge.
The incident unfolded on August 29, coinciding with the couple’s separation date, shortly after they celebrated their second wedding anniversary. Just a day prior, Garcia expressed enthusiasm on her podcast, discussing their time together at a spa and hopes for their marriage, stating they were looking to enhance their relationship.
While both parties have divergent requests regarding custody, sources close to the couple have described their relationship as “volatile,” suggesting that the underlying issues may not have been entirely unexpected by those in their inner circle. The couple, who married in August 2022 and welcomed Matteo in August 2020, are now faced with a challenging road ahead as they resolve these critical issues in court.
If you find any of these matters distressing or need support, organizations such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline can provide necessary assistance and guidance.
