Artem Chigvintsev is looking toward the future. After prosecutors moved not to file charges following his Aug. 29 arrest for domestic violence, the Dancing With the Stars alum told E! News how he’s moving on from this “extremely difficult time,” explaining that his top priority remains his 4-year-old son Matteo , whom he shares with estranged wife Nikki Garcia .
“My focus has always been and will always be, our son Matteo,” Artem said in a statement Sept. 25. “He is my world, and being his father is the greatest blessing in my life.
All along, my main concern has been for him.” “I am committed to continuing to provide him with the love, support, and care he needs as we move forward,” he continued. “I am hopeful that securing an equal custody arrangement will help us move on.
” Nikki, 40, filed to end her 2-year marriage to Artem, 42, on Sept. 11, citing irreconcilable differences as the reason for the split. In the filing, the former WWE star—who previously went by Nikki Bella —also requested sole legal and physical custody of Matteo, with visitation rights for Artem.
But in his own filing two days later , he requested joint legal and physical custody, as well as spousal support. As Artem told E! News, “I look forward to moving past this chapter and focusing on what truly matters—continue being the best father I can be.” The pro dancer has spoken about fatherhood in the past.
“I never thought I would be a dad,” he told Entertainment Tonight .