Joe Blanchard Death – Cancer
Famous wrestling promoter Joe Blanchard began a wrestling dynasty. His son Tully and his grandson Tessa became wrestlers.
1928-2012 (Age 83)
Joe Blanchard filled about every conceivable role in professional wrestling including wrestler, promoter, announcer, and even figurehead president of the American Wrestling Association (AWA).
Joe is also known for starting the Blanchard wrestling family, which includes his son Tully and granddaughter Tessa. The Blanchard wrestling dynasty is a third-generation dynasty that is often overlooked by fans.
Oklahoma native Joe Blanchard was born on December 7, 1928. He played football and wrestled in high school to great success. He played professional football for four years in the Canadian Football League then transitioned to professional wrestling.
Blanchard wrestled from the ’50s through the ’70s but also promoted matches in Texas. Blanchard was responsible for breaking legendary Native American football player-turned-wrestler Wahoo McDaniel into the business and years later, his son Tully feuded with McDaniel in Texas after Tully turned heel.
Joe worked hard to turn his Southwest Championship Wrestling promotion into a success but financial woes caught up with him and he lost his time slot on the USA Network to Vince McMahon, allowing the WWF to acquire much-needed cable access.
After selling his promotion, Joe later worked in the AWA as its kayfabe President. He served in this role from 1989 until the AWA’s demise not long after.
Life After Wrestling
According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter’s April 2, 2012 obituary, Blanchard became heavily involved in San Antonio, Texas’ Cornerstone Church in 1987 and for the rest of his life.
The Death of Joe Blanchard
Like many wrestlers, Joe Blanchard’s time in the squared circle took its toll on his body. Consequently, he underwent three hip replacement surgeries. Blanchard maintained a healthy diet and physical fitness regimen. Sadly, doctors diagnosed him with cancer.
Joe Blanchard died on March 22, 2012, at the age of 83. He was survived by his son Tully and his granddaughter Tessa.
Other pro wrestlers who died in 2012 include Awesome Kong, Brad Armstrong, Buddy Roberts, Chief Jay Strongbow, Doug Furnas, Mike Graham, and Richard Trogdon.
Did you get to see any of Joe Blanchard’s career in professional wrestling? Let us know in the comments below.
