Tessa Blanchard's much-anticipated return to TNA Wrestling at the Final Resolution event on December 13 has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, stirring both excitement and controversy. This marked the former TNA/IMPACT World Champion’s return to the promotion after her tumultuous exit four years ago amid serious allegations of bullying and racism.
Blanchard's return was not just about nostalgia; it appears to be strategic. According to industry insider Dave Meltzer on the Wrestling Observer Radio, TNA is utilizing Blanchard's star power as part of her feud with prominent wrestler Jordynne Grace, who is reportedly set to leave TNA for WWE when her contract expires early next year. “She is feuding with Jordynne Grace, who is leaving by the way and going to WWE when the contract is up most likely,” Meltzer explained. This move aims to position Blanchard as the face of TNA’s Knockouts division as the organization braces for potential talent departures including Grace, Mike Bailey, and Josh Alexander.
The lead-up to Blanchard's return saw considerable internal tension. According to reports from Fightful Select, many talent members within TNA were caught off guard by her comeback, with the news intentionally kept under wraps due to fears of negative backlash. Some within the company, especially newer staff not familiar with Blanchard's past controversies, were reportedly more open to her return. Observers noted, “The hope is there is enough new talent to work with who haven’t soured on her,” indicating some optimism surrounding her involvement.
Following the announcement of her return, Blanchard made her entrance at Final Resolution, immediately taking action against Jordynne Grace, leading to social media outcries from both fans and industry commentators. Moose, another high-profile wrestling figure, publicly welcomed Blanchard back on Twitter, stating, “You would think by now fans on Twitter/X would understand their opinions about me and anyone on the @ThisIsTNA roster doesn’t matter.” His remarks were met with mixed feelings, with many fans expressing their disappointment and anger at the decision to bring Blanchard back considering her history.
The backdrop of Blanchard’s return is intertwined with significant changes at TNA. With the company under new leadership following the recent appointment of Carlos Silva as president, it raises questions about the direction TNA management intends to pursue. Meltzer elucidated on this shift, noting, “The decision to bring back Blanchard was made by upper management, not necessarily the wrestling people,” hinting at potential discord between the front office and the wrestling talent.
While the wrestling community remains divided, the cold hard facts are clear: Blanchard's comeback can be viewed through multiple lenses. For some, it’s the revival of one of the most talented women wrestlers of her generation, and for others, it’s a glaring misstep by TNA considering her checkered past. The internal workings suggest TNA's approach might be driven more by desperation to retain viewership and marketplace presence than any personal fondness for Blanchard.
Outwardly, Blanchard's actions during her return were emblematic of someone who is aware of the stakes—after years of being marginalized, the moment serves as both redemption and another chance to showcase her wrestling prowess. If she manages to perform well during her upcoming matches, this could pave the way for rejuvenation of her image and perhaps lead to opportunities at larger promotions like WWE.
For now, all eyes are on the developing tension between Blanchard and Grace. Their feud will likely be pivotal as fans gauge not only the storyline but also Blanchard's ability to rise above the controversies and criticisms levied against her. It remains to be seen whether this calculated risk by TNA pays off or backfires.
With tensions and stakes high, TNA's gamble on Blanchard will be intimately tied to Grace's departure, and many will be closely monitoring whether Blanchard can wrestle her way back to respect—or if the controversies of her past will haunt her comeback.
