Tessa Blanchard Secures TNA Release After 2024 Return

Q: Forced to choose between promotions, where will wrestling's controversial third-generation star land next?

Tessa Blanchard is most likely staying with CMLL in Mexico. The reporting around her TNA exit points strongly in that direction. Multiple outlets cited a clash between TNA’s WWE-aligned business interests and Blanchard’s ongoing work for CMLL, which is tied to AEW. Rather than give up CMLL, Blanchard requested and received her release from TNA. Her status with CMLL is not expected to change, and she is set to address her departure on CMLL’s YouTube channel, a further sign that promotion is now her primary home. The practical reasons also favor CMLL. Blanchard has long-standing ties there, is reportedly booked more often, and is believed to be paid well. Her personal life may also be a factor, with reports noting her boyfriend is on the CMLL roster. Those details make CMLL the most stable and logical landing spot after being forced to choose. That does not necessarily rule out future appearances elsewhere, but the immediate answer is clear: she appears to have chosen CMLL over TNA. Any move to WWE or AEW would be more speculative at this stage, especially given the promotional politics that helped trigger her departure. For now, the evidence indicates Blanchard will continue her career in CMLL rather than make an immediate jump to another major U.S. promotion.

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 17

TNA granted Tessa Blanchard’s release Tuesday after the former world champion requested to leave the promotion, according to Fox News Digital.
CMLL is expected to host Blanchard’s explanation on its YouTube page, underscoring that she is still performing for the Mexican promotion.
2024 marked Blanchard’s return to TNA after an earlier 2018-2020 run, during which she became the first woman to win the TNA World Championship and also held the Knockouts title.
No. 92 on Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s 2025 list, Blanchard had recently been aligned with Victoria Crawford and Myla Moore and won her last singles match on Impact last month.