Following Tessa Blanchard's IMPACT World Title win at IMPACT Hard to Kill, she was greeted at the top of the ramp by Gail Kim. Kim and Tessa have battled on-screen, but Tessa has stated she considers Gail a mentor to her backstage. Kim has been a producer for IMPACT since 2018 following her retirement from full-time competition.
The moment between Kim and Blanchard was subject to criticism online as Kim has been outspoken in the past about WWE and the racism within the company. Tessa was accused of racism on Saturday when it was alleged she spit in the face of La Rosa Negra and called her the N-word. Tessa has denied the allegations.
Kim took to social media to address the backlash stemming from her hug with Tessa.
Funny when something problematic happens in WWE Gail Kim always gives her two cents but she stays silent AND silently supports Tessa Blanchard? pic.twitter.com/yX4AToPqN0
— . (@FVlTHBREAKER) January 13, 2020
I will address things but not in a tweet and also, the “demanding of answers” from people who think they are owed that or come negatively and aggressively making presumptions...that is not what I will respond to. https://t.co/wqWkSFr8wQ
— Gail Kim-Irvine (@gailkimITSME) January 13, 2020
Agreed. I do have a voice and will speak on the matter. I think people don’t realize in this instant gratification world that people process things and have discussions. It’s been 48 hrs including a Ppv day. Just breathe people https://t.co/ZrSI7kDAuf
— Gail Kim-Irvine (@gailkimITSME) January 13, 2020
I would rather speak than put a tweet out. https://t.co/pMrtWh94tt
— Gail Kim-Irvine (@gailkimITSME) January 13, 2020
Tessa addressed the crowd following Hard to Kill, saying that "nobody is perfect," but never outright mentioning the alleged bullying and racism. La Rosa Negra did an interview touching on the allegation, noting that she doesn't expect an apology and has let the incident go. You can view her full comments by clicking here.
