Was Tully Blanchard ever a face?

The world of professional wrestling is often characterized by dynamic narratives, and few individuals have navigated its intricate terrain with the finesse of Tully Arthur Blanchard. Best known for his pivotal roles in Jim Crockett Promotions and the World Wrestling Federation during the mid-to-late 1980s, Tully Blanchard’s career is a tapestry woven with various wrestling personas. In this article, we explore a fascinating chapter in Blanchard’s journey—his early years when he stepped into the ring as a face.

The Early Days in Southwest Championship Wrestling:

Tully Blanchard’s wrestling odyssey began in Southwest Championship Wrestling (SCW) in the mid-1970s. A notable initiation marked the early phase of his career when he embraced the role of a face, teaming up with his father in a tag team partnership. The duo embarked on a feud against the formidable Dory Funk, Jr., and Terry Funk, establishing Blanchard’s presence in the wrestling landscape.

A Face Turn: Tag Teaming with Family:

In the realm of professional wrestling, a “face turn” refers to a character transitioning from a villainous persona to a heroic one. Blanchard’s initial face turn occurred as he joined forces with his father, forming a tag team that captivated audiences with their dynamic in-ring chemistry. The storyline pitted them against the renowned Funk brothers, adding a layer of family rivalry to the unfolding drama.

Blanchard’s Journey as a Face:

During his tenure as a face in SCW, Tully Blanchard showcased his wrestling skills and the charisma that would later become defining elements of his career. The face turn not only allowed Blanchard to connect with audiences on a more personal level but also laid the foundation for the versatility that would mark his future endeavors in different wrestling promotions.

The Evolution of Tully Blanchard:

While Tully Blanchard’s early career featured him as a face, the wrestling landscape is known for its ever-changing dynamics. As time progressed, Blanchard would go on to explore various character arcs, eventually gaining widespread recognition as a key member of The Four Horsemen and The Brain Busters, where he portrayed compelling villainous roles.

Tully Blanchard’s journey as a professional wrestler encompasses a rich tapestry of characters, each contributing to the legacy of this Canadian-American wrestling luminary. From his early days as a face in Southwest Championship Wrestling to his later iconic roles, Blanchard’s ability to adapt and captivate audiences has solidified his status as a wrestling legend. As fans reflect on the various facets of Tully Blanchard’s career, his time as a face serves as a testament to the complexity and depth that characterize the world of professional wrestling.