 In June, Nikki confirmed that she would no longer use her "Rack Attack" maneuver and began training with her sister's husband Daniel Bryan, whom she announced was teaching her a new finishing move.On July 21, she was revealed to be cleared for in-ring competition and continued her training at the WWE Performance Center.After ten months of inactivity, Bella made a surprise return as a villainess at the SummerSlam pay–per–view on August 21, 2016, where she replaced Eva Marie and teamed with Natalya and Alexa Bliss against Becky Lynch, Naomi, and Carmella whom they defeated after Bella pinned Carmella.