Taya Valkyrie is now the new Impact Knockouts champion, but under controversial circumstances.
The two knockouts have been battling for the top prize in the women’s division since Bound For Glory, with Blanchard getting the best of Valkyrie each time.
A special guest referee was appointed to the championship match when management felt that the bout needed one due to Tessa’s antics inside the squared circle.
The women had a solid back-and-forth encounter as the Impact Hall of famer remained neutral throughout. However, Kim and Blanchard went face to face late in the match. The knockouts champion then grabbed Kim by the throat, but the guest referee fought back and hit her Eat Defeat finisher on Blanchard, which led to Valkyrie scoring the pin.