Tessa Blanchard is a name that sparks both admiration and intrigue in the world of professional wrestling. As a third-generation wrestler, she has combined grit, unmatched talent, and a commanding ring presence to dominate the industry. However, her career has been punctuated by both groundbreaking achievements and polarizing controversies. Through it all, Tessa Blanchard has demonstrated a resilience that has continued to shape her narrative in the spotlight.
Early Life and Family Background
Born on July 26, 1995, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Tessa Blanchard carries a remarkable wrestling pedigree. She is the daughter of legendary wrestler Tully Blanchard and the granddaughter of Joe Blanchard, a respected promoter. After her parents’ separation, Tessa lived with her mother, Courtney Shattuck, and her stepfather, Magnum T.A., another wrestling icon.
Tessa’s early years were marked by her involvement in the performing arts at the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, as well as track and field during her high school years. Despite growing up in a wrestling household, Tessa initially kept her passion for the sport a secret. This leap of faith into professional wrestling only began after high school when she trained under George South and later became a standout student at Highspots Wrestling School.
Physical Attributes and Key Information
Tessa Blanchard is known for her athleticism and commanding presence in the ring. Her physical attributes play a significant role in her success. Standing 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 125 pounds, she combines agility with power.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tessa Blanchard |
| Date of Birth | July 26, 1995 |
| Birthplace | Charlotte, North Carolina |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (165 cm) |
| Weight | 125 lbs (57 kg) |
| Trained By | George South |
| Debut | June 13, 2014 |
| Net Worth | Estimated $3 million (2025) |
The Road to Wrestling Prominence
Early Career
Tessa Blanchard began her professional wrestling career on the independent circuit in 2014. She gained recognition for her tenacity and skill, frequently competing in promotions like SHIMMER and Shine Wrestling. She partnered with Vanessa Kraven as “Mount Tessa” to become Shimmer Tag Team Champions.
Blanchard also captured titles in promotions like East Coast Wrestling Association (ECWA), where she won the Super 8 ChickFight Tournament, further solidifying her status as a rising star.
Breakthrough with Impact Wrestling
Blanchard’s big break came in 2018 with Impact Wrestling when she defeated high-profile competitors to become the Impact Knockouts Champion. This reign marked her as a dominant force in women’s wrestling. However, the most trailblazing moment of her career occurred in 2020 when she defeated Sami Callihan to become the first female Impact World Champion, breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated title lineage.
Despite her success, her Impact tenure ended in controversy in 2020 when the organization terminated her contract during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Achievements in Women of Wrestling
Blanchard’s tenure with Women of Wrestling (WOW) further showcased her dominance. She won the WOW World Championship against Jungle Grrrl and participated as a trainer in the promotion’s efforts to elevate women’s wrestling on major platforms.
International Success
Tessa Blanchard expanded her career to the global stage by competing in Japan’s Stardom promotion and Mexico’s AAA Lucha Libre. She became the AAA Reina de Reinas Champion in 2019 and captured the CMLL Women’s Tag Team Championship in 2023.
Latest Developments (2025)
Tessa Blanchard recently returned to TNA Wrestling under its revamped brand, capturing headlines at TNA Genesis by defeating Jordynne Grace. However, she faced a hostile reception from fans due to her controversial past, including allegations of bullying and racism. Tessa addressed the concerns indirectly, expressing her resolve to rebuild her career and reclaim her identity in the wrestling world.
Net Worth and Earnings
As of 2025, Tessa Blanchard’s net worth is estimated at approximately $3 million. Her income stems not only from wrestling but also from endorsements and acting roles—such as her work as Florence Pugh’s stunt double in the film Fighting with My Family.
Personal Challenges and Growth
Despite her accolades, Tessa Blanchard has faced significant personal and professional challenges. Allegations of racism and bullying cast a shadow on her career in 2020, leading to backlash from fans and peers alike. Blanchard addressed these struggles, mentioning how she sought therapy and leaned on loved ones for support. Her recent return to prominence underscores her determination to learn and grow from past mistakes.
Awards and Honors
Over her career, Blanchard has won numerous accolades, including:
- Impact World Champion (First Female)
- Impact Knockouts Champion
- AAA Reina de Reinas Champion
- WOW World Champion
- Shimmer Tag Team Champion
- ECWA Women’s Champion
- CMLL Women’s Tag Team Champion
Legacy and Future
Tessa Blanchard continues to be a polarizing figure in the professional wrestling world. For some, she is a groundbreaking athlete who shattered ceilings and broadened horizons for women in wrestling. For others, she remains a figure of contention due to her troubled past. Regardless of perspective, her influence on shaping women’s wrestling is undeniable, making her a compelling character in the wrestling narrative.
