‘Dancing with the Stars’ Pro Finalizes Divorce Amid Domestic Violence Allegations

The past few months have been turbulent for Dancing with the Stars pro Artem Chigvintsev and his now ex-wife, former WWE star Nikki Garcia. The couple’s highly publicized relationship troubles culminated in an official divorce settlement following a series of allegations and legal proceedings.

In late August, Chigvintsev was arrested at the couple’s Napa Valley, California, home after an argument allegedly turned physical. He was charged with corporal injury to a spouse, a felony, and released from custody the same day after posting a $250,000 bail. Reports revealed that Chigvintsev had initially called police earlier that day to request medical assistance, but later canceled the call. However, officers arrived at the scene and, after speaking to both parties, took Chigvintsev into custody.

Related: ABC Star Claims Bakery Discriminated Against Her Because of Politics

The fallout from the incident was swift. Less than two weeks after the arrest, Garcia filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. While the charges against Chigvintsev were dropped shortly after his arrest, the Napa Valley District Attorney’s office confirmed they had three years to reopen the case if new evidence emerged.

Legal battles ensued as the couple sought restraining orders against one another, each alleging the other was the primary aggressor. Garcia claimed Chigvintsev’s temper had worsened following his removal from Dancing with the Stars, while Chigvintsev alleged Garcia was under immense stress from work and their marital struggles. Both parties painted a picture of a relationship in turmoil.

Despite the contentious legal proceedings, the pair has since agreed to a private settlement. PEOPLE reported that both Chigvintsev and Garcia decided to drop their respective restraining orders and resolve their divorce through mediation.

According to a statement from Garcia’s representative, the former couple prioritized their four-year-old son, Matteo, in reaching their agreement.

A rep for Garcia confirms to PEOPLE the former couple have settled their divorce in a private mediation and will not be going to court.

Details of the settlement are unclear but “both parties decided to drop the domestic violence restraining orders against each other in an effort to move on with their lives and effectively co-parent their son,” the rep said in a statement.

“Nikki’s number one priority has always been her son and privacy on the matter,” the rep continued. “She is thankful for all of the love and support she has received during this difficult time.”

Related: Beloved ABC Host Admits Wanting to “Screw” Show After Shocking Firing

While the details of the settlement remain confidential, Garcia’s initial divorce filing requested sole custody of Matteo without spousal support. Chigvintsev, however, filed a counter-petition seeking joint custody, spousal support, and coverage of his legal fees. It’s unclear how these requests were resolved in the final agreement.

The news marks a significant turning point for the former couple, who had been married since 2020. Fans of both stars are hopeful that this chapter will allow them to move forward and co-parent effectively.

Domestic violence allegations are always deeply troubling, and everyone deserves to feel safe in their relationships. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides 24/7 support and can be reached at (800) 799-7233, or by texting “START” to 88788.