At TNA Genesis, Tessa Blanchard defeated Jordynne Grace in the controversial wrestler’s first match for the promotion since 2020. Many fans have been opposed to Blanchard’s return to TNA, but that won’t stop the former Impact World Champion.
On Instagram, Blanchard had a message at those fans angry to see her back in TNA. The second-generation wrestler told those mad to “just wait” and that “This is only the beginning.”
Tessa Blanchard Controversy
Tessa Blanchard has faced significant controversy in professional wrestling due to allegations of racism and bullying, which have had lasting effects on her career and public image.
Allegations of Racism: In 2020, several wrestlers accused Blanchard of making racially insensitive remarks and using a racial slur during a 2017 incident involving wrestler La Rosa Negra. Negra claimed Blanchard spat on her and directed a racial slur at her while in Japan. Although Blanchard denied these accusations, the claims triggered widespread backlash within the wrestling community.
Bullying Accusations: Alongside the racism allegations, Blanchard was accused by multiple wrestlers, including WWE’s Chelsea Green, of exhibiting bullying behavior backstage. Wrestlers from promotions such as AEW, Impact Wrestling, and NWA voiced similar complaints, cementing her reputation as a divisive figure among her peers.
Career Impact: These controversies erupted as Blanchard was poised to make history as the first woman to win the Impact Wrestling World Championship. Despite the achievement, the allegations overshadowed her victory. Later in 2020, Blanchard was stripped of the title and her contract terminated. Although Impact Wrestling cited contractual disagreements, the allegations significantly influenced public and professional perceptions of her.
Efforts to Reconcile: Blanchard has made some attempts to repair her reputation, including a public reconciliation with La Rosa Negra in 2023. Photos of the two together suggested they had resolved their issues. However, despite some support from figures like TNA’s Matt Hardy, Blanchard continues to face criticism for not fully addressing or taking accountability for the allegations.
While Blanchard is currently active in wrestling, including with TNA Wrestling, which seems intent on showcasing her as a leading talent, it remains uncertain whether fans and the broader wrestling community will fully embrace her again. For now, she continues to focus on her in-ring performances amid ongoing debates about her place in the industry.
Tessa Blanchard Claims False Narrative Was Spread by Ex-TNA Individual