Staff Reports | Happenings & Events
WWE Superstar and television personality Nikki Bella will serve as Grand Marshal for the 53rd annual Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by Lerner & Rowe.
The parade takes place at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, in central Phoenix, leading into the College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl.
According to a press release, Ms. Bella is one of the most recognizable women in sports entertainment. A two-time WWE Divas Champion, she holds the record as the longest-reigning Divas Champion in WWE history and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2021.
Raised in Scottsdale and a graduate of Chaparral High School, Ms. Bella excelled as a soccer player and rodeo champion before beginning her WWE career in 2007. She has remained connected to Arizona through community initiatives, philanthropic work and family ties.
The Grand Marshal honor recognizes individuals whose actions align with the Fiesta Sports Foundation’s commitment to economic growth, charitable causes and innovative experiences.
“Nikki Bella embodies strength, resilience, entertainment and heart—all qualities that resonate deeply with our community and with what this parade represents,” said Erik Moses, executive director and CEO of the Fiesta Sports Foundation. “Her Arizona upbringing and extraordinary career make her an inspiring choice to lead this year’s celebration.”
Outside the ring, Ms. Bella has built a multifaceted career as an entrepreneur and cultural icon. She starred in the reality series Total Divas and Total Bellas, launched lifestyle and beauty ventures, created her own wine label and co-hosts The Nikki & Brie Show podcast for SiriusXM. She is also a New York Times best-selling author.
“Being named Grand Marshal of the Fiesta Bowl Parade is such an incredible honor—and being able to celebrate with the state that helped shape who I am makes it even more special,” Ms. Bella said. “I am so excited to join everyone in Arizona to create lifelong memories at the parade and into the CFP Semifinal at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl festivities.”
Ms. Bella joins a list of past grand marshals including Charles Barkley, Jerry Colangelo, Alice Cooper, Richard Jefferson, Randy Johnson, Al McCoy, Jake Plummer, Anthony Robles, Kerri Strug and Diana Taurasi.
The Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by Lerner & Rowe is one of Arizona’s highest-attended single-day events, featuring balloons, floats, marching bands and community groups. The parade will be broadcast live on Arizona’s Family 3TV and statewide across its digital platforms on Saturday, Jan. 3. Admission is free.
“Nikki’s rise from Scottsdale to the global stage is a powerful inspiration for women everywhere,” said Judy Bernas, board chair of the Fiesta Sports Foundation. “This year’s Fiesta Bowl Parade is one of our most vibrant celebrations yet, bringing the best of Arizona to life for fans lining the streets and those watching from home.”
