5 Surprising Facts About Jordan Mailata's Wife, Niki Ikahihifo-Bender: From Lawyer To NFL WAG

The question of "Jordan Mailata's girlfriend" is officially outdated. As of late 2025, the Philadelphia Eagles' beloved offensive tackle is a happily married man. His partner, the brilliant and accomplished Niki Ikahihifo-Bender, transitioned from being his long-time girlfriend to his wife in a stunning ceremony that captivated Eagles fans and the NFL community in July 2023. This article dives deep into the incredible woman who is the rock for the 6-foot-8, 365-pound gentle giant of the Eagles' offensive line, providing the freshest and most current details on their life together.

The couple's love story is a modern-day fairy tale, starting with a charming meet-cute in Philadelphia that has since blossomed into one of the most stable and supportive relationships in the National Football League. Niki Ikahihifo-Bender is not just an NFL wife; she is a high-achieving professional with a fascinating background, making her a compelling figure in her own right.

Jordan Mailata and Niki Ikahihifo-Bender: A Complete Biography Snapshot

Before exploring the details of their relationship, here is a quick look at the biographies of the power couple.

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Lafoga Jordan Mailata: The Gentle Giant

• Full Name: Lafoga Jordan Mailata
• Date of Birth: March 31, 1997
• Age (as of Dec 2025): 28
• Hometown: Bankstown, New South Wales, Australia
• Heritage: Samoan and Tongan descent
• Profession: Professional American Football Player (Offensive Tackle)
• NFL Team: Philadelphia Eagles (Drafted in 2018)
• Previous Career: Professional Rugby League Player for the South Sydney Rabbitohs
• Noteworthy Talents: Highly accomplished singer, known for performing Stevie Wonder songs and recording holiday albums.

Niki Ikahihifo-Bender: The Intellectual Property Attorney

• Full Name: Niki Ikahihifo-Bender
• Date of Birth: December 1991 (Approx.)
• Age (as of Dec 2025): 33
• Hometown: Alaska, USA
• Heritage: Tongan-American
• Profession: Intellectual Property Attorney / Lawyer
• Education: B.A. in Psychology from New York University (NYU), J.D. and Master's Degree from Duke University School of Law
• Career Highlights: Has built a strong résumé in the legal field, including experience as an intellectual associate at firms like Ballard Spahr LLP.

The Charming Meet-Cute: From Reading Terminal Market to Wife

The foundation of Jordan and Niki’s relationship is a story straight out of a romantic comedy. They first crossed paths in 2018, shortly after Jordan Mailata was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles despite having never played a down of American football.

The initial meeting took place at the iconic Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia. Niki Ikahihifo-Bender was walking when Mailata, with his massive 6'8" frame, accidentally bumped into her. This accidental collision led to a conversation, and they quickly realized they shared a connection, especially their Polynesian roots, as both have Tongan heritage.

Their relationship developed rapidly. Niki, an Intellectual Property Attorney with a sharp legal mind, became a crucial source of support as Jordan navigated the challenging transition from professional rugby league in Australia to becoming a starting Offensive Tackle in the NFL. She was his constant during the steep learning curve of protecting quarterback Jalen Hurts and the rest of the Eagles' offense.

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5 Surprising Facts About Jordan Mailata's Wife

Niki Ikahihifo-Bender is much more than just the partner of an NFL star. Her accomplishments and background are impressive, providing a fascinating counterpoint to Mailata's professional football career.

1. She is a Highly Educated Intellectual Property Lawyer

Niki's academic background is stellar. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from New York University (NYU) and went on to earn both a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and a Master's degree from the prestigious Duke University School of Law. Her focus on Intellectual Property Law is a testament to her intelligence and dedication to a demanding professional career, a far cry from the typical WAG profile.

2. She Shares Jordan's Tongan Heritage

One of the key bonds that strengthened their relationship early on was their shared Tongan heritage. Jordan Mailata is of Samoan and Tongan descent, while Niki Ikahihifo-Bender is Tongan-American, originally hailing from Alaska. This shared cultural background provided an immediate and deep connection, grounding their relationship despite the pressures of the NFL spotlight.

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3. Their Wedding Was a Tuscan-Inspired Affair

After Jordan proposed to Niki in May 2022, the couple tied the knot in July 2023. Their wedding was a lavish, romantic event held in California's wine country, featuring a beautiful Tuscan-inspired theme. The celebration was attended by many of Mailata's Philadelphia Eagles teammates, making it a high-profile offseason event for the team.

4. Jordan Serenaded Her at Their Wedding

Jordan Mailata is famously known for his incredible singing voice, a talent he has showcased on television and even on Eagles' holiday albums. He put this talent on full display at his wedding, serenading Niki with a heartfelt rendition of Stevie Wonder's classic, "Isn't She Lovely." This touching moment was a highlight of the celebration and perfectly captured the romantic side of the massive offensive lineman.

5. She is a Private but Supportive Presence

While Niki maintains a successful, demanding career outside of the NFL world, she is a constant and supportive presence in Jordan's life. She is often seen at Lincoln Financial Field, cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles, and Mailata has publicly acknowledged her support, thanking his wife during press conferences and interviews. She strikes a perfect balance between her high-powered legal career and supporting her husband's demanding life as a professional athlete.

Jordan and Niki's Future: A Continued Love Story

Since their wedding in 2023, Jordan Mailata and Niki Ikahihifo-Bender have been navigating life as a married couple. Their relationship is a symbol of partnership, blending the high-octane world of the NFL with the rigorous demands of a legal career. As Jordan Mailata continues to anchor the Philadelphia Eagles' offensive line, Niki remains his intellectual and emotional anchor, proving that their initial meet-cute at the Reading Terminal Market was truly fate.

The couple's story resonates with fans because it is grounded in mutual respect, shared cultural background, and individual success. For those searching for "Jordan Mailata's girlfriend," the answer is a happy update: he found his life partner, Niki Ikahihifo-Bender, and their journey together is just beginning. Their love story is a powerful reminder that behind every successful athlete is often an equally accomplished and supportive partner.