Although Jordan Mailata is an NFL player for the Philadelphia Eagles, his first love was never American football. Back in 2018, Mailata switched his rugby career when the Eagles picked him in the 2018 draft, seeing his stature, strength, and agility. But people were not at all happy with this decision at first.

After being chosen by the Eagles, many people raised their eyebrows about whether Mailata would succeed in the NFL. But six years down the line and a Super Bowl appearance in 2023, the offensive tackle remains an integral part of the Eagles’ defense. Well, his NFL career is not the only thing that has changed. There is someone special in the Eagles’ tackle’s life, too, who helped him attain his full potential. But who is she?

Who is Jordan Mailata’s wife?

Niki Ikahihifo Bender is the wife of Jordan Mailata. In 2023, they tied the knot after dating for several years. The couple first met in 2018 at Philadelphia’s bustling Reading Market, where Niki was visiting for her father’s 50th medical school reunion.

At the same time, Mailata was out with friends, searching for a place to grab lunch. Four years later, they returned to the same spot, and Jordan got down on one knee to propose to Niki, making their marriage even more meaningful.

Niki Ikahihifo Bender’s Parents

Niki grew up in Alaska with her sister Jade and their parents, Thomas Bender and Talita Ikahihifo, both of whom were associated with the medical field. They were both high achievers in life, and Niki followed in their footsteps. But what did she study?

Niki Ikahihifo Bender’s education

Niki Ikahihifo Bender, the wife of NFL star Jordan Mailata, has an impressive academic background. She began her studies at Mary Baldwin University before transferring to New York University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. She then pursued advanced studies at Duke University, completing a Master’s degree in Psychology as well as a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the Duke University School of Law. Her strong educational foundation in both psychology and law reflects her diverse expertise and professional dedication.

What does Niki Ikahihifo Bender do for a living?

Niki Ikahihifo-Bender is a practicing lawyer and legal professional who has built a solid résumé in intellectual property law. Her LinkedIn lists her most recent role as an attorney at JM&NB LLC, based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Before that, she worked at Ballard Spahr LLP in a role tied to intellectual property (IP) matters until November 2022. She also has experience with Norton Rose Fulbright and earlier intern roles, including one at BP in Anchorage, Alaska.

Her educational background is strong and supports her legal career: she holds a Bachelor of Arts from Mary Baldwin University and studied further with a Master’s in Physiology as well as legal studies at Duke University School of Law. Her combined training in sciences and law gives her a unique edge in technology-, biotech-, or IP-related cases where an understanding of physiology or scientific method matters.

On top of her law work, Niki shares parts of this with her audience. She describes herself on Instagram as a “Tongan lawyer from Alaska.” She combines her professional content, travel, family, and fashion, which helps her personal brand grow while keeping her legal work in the forefront.

Inside Jordan Mailata and Niki’s Wedding

When Jordan Mailata tied the knot with Niki Ikahihifo in Maui, Hawaii, in July 2023, it wasn’t just a wedding—it was a full-on show. The Eagles’ 6’8’’ tackle stunned everyone by grabbing the mic and belting out Stevie Wonder’s “Isn’t She Lovely” to his bride. Dressed in a deep-green suit that gave a subtle nod to Philly, Mailata’s voice filled the room while Niki glowed on the dance floor. Guests erupted, and teammates like Jalen Hurts and Lane Johnson cheered on from the crowd.

It was the perfect mix of romance and personality—music, football, and culture all tied together. For Mailata, who once appeared on The Masked Singer, singing has always been part of his life, and this moment proved it. Their Maui celebration wasn’t just about vows, but about sharing who they are as a couple, authentic, joyful, and unforgettable.

Jordan Mailata and His Wife Niki Ikahihifo-Bender’s Life Together

Since their wedding, Jordan and Niki have established a marital bond that unites their romantic connection with their professional drive and mutual encouragement. Jordan expresses to his followers that his NFL season progress would fail without the continuous support of his wife. Niki stands beside her husband through every stage of his recovery from injury, his performance stress, and his public life challenges by staying present and offering support to help him maintain his stability. 

Mailata stands behind Niki as she pursues her professional career. The Duke-trained lawyer has developed her own professional identity while she supports her husband’s work. Their relationship shows the give-and-take of a true partnership. The couple has achieved status as one of Philadelphia’s most popular young power couples because they share their achievements on social media while keeping their personal victories private.

Niki Ikahihifo-Bender on Social Media

Scroll through Niki’s Instagram (@nikiboo) and you’ll get a real sense of who she is. She posts everything from sun-kissed vacation shots to courtroom-ready looks, Eagles game-day flicks, and plenty of sweet moments with Jordan. Fans love her mix of authenticity and glamour, as she balances being a lawyer, a wife, and a supporter of Philly football.

Jordan Mailata may dominate defensive lines every Sunday, but off the field, his biggest win has been building a life with Niki Ikahihifo-Bender. From the unforgettable wedding serenade in Maui to their day-to-day support of one another, the couple shows how love and partnership can shine even under the brightest NFL spotlight. For Eagles Nation, it’s just another reason to cheer for Mailata—not just as a player, but as a man whose biggest fan is now his wife.