Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - Panda Khan (1990)

 

Panda Khan - Anthropomorphic Giant Panda

I've been a longtime fan and collector of TMNT figures. Back in the day, I used to get them as birthday gifts or buy them with money from my paper route. Now that I'm older, it's awesome to be able to keep collecting. Vintage figures are definitely getting more expensive, but the hunt is still part of the fun. One figure I was really excited to add a while back was Panda Khan. He’s such a cool and underrated character, and having him in my collection feels like checking off a major box from my childhood wishlist.

Help support the page on patreon Become a Patron!  

TRY AMAZON PRIME!

Amazon Link:

PlayMates TMNT Classic Turtle Blimp

Panda Khan – TMNT Character Bio

Full Name: Panda Khan

Species: Anthropomorphic Giant Panda

Origin: Empire of Mandakoru, Anthro-Earth (an alternate future Earth)

Affiliation: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (ally), Warriors of Mandakoru

First TMNT Appearance: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures (Archie Comics)

First Toy Appearance: Playmates Toys, 1990

Created by: Monica Sharp and Dave Garcia

Backstory:

Panda Khan is a noble and battle-hardened samurai hailing from Anthro-Earth, a parallel version of Earth set in the distant future where intelligent, anthropomorphic animals have risen to prominence. He is the prince and protector of the Mandakoru Empire, a land inspired by feudal Japan yet shaped by advanced technologies, ancient mysticism, and interstellar conflicts.

Trained in the strict Bushido code, Panda Khan is a disciplined warrior who values honor, courage, loyalty, and justice above all else. As a descendant of a powerful warrior bloodline, he bears the sacred duty of defending his people from internal threats and dimensional invaders alike.

Though his primary weapon is the katana, Panda Khan is not bound by tradition alone. He is also armed with a futuristic energy blaster, a symbol of his world's fusion of ancient martial tradition with advanced warfare. This blend of old and new makes him a uniquely formidable force—capable of striking with precision in both hand-to-hand combat and ranged engagements.

  

Amazon Link:

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Classic 4" Turtles 4-Pack

Crossover with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles:

Panda Khan's path crossed with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles when a temporal rift transported him into their dimension. Recognizing their shared sense of duty and honor, he quickly became a trusted ally—often fighting alongside them against alien warlords, mutants, and other supernatural forces that threatened the multiverse.

He formed a particular kinship with Leonardo, as both share a deep respect for discipline and the way of the sword. Panda Khan brought with him not only strength and honor, but also insight from a future world where tradition and technology walk hand in hand.

Character Traits and Gear:

Primary Weapons:

Katana (Samurai Sword): Ancestral blade used in close combat.

Blaster: A futuristic energy weapon for ranged attacks, standard issue for elite warriors of Mandakoru.

Armor: Traditional red and gold samurai armor, enhanced with futuristic plating and designed for mobility and durability.

Combat Skills: Master of Kenjutsu, futuristic tactical warfare, and interdimensional strategy.

Personality: Wise, courageous, disciplined, and deeply honorable. A true warrior-philosopher.

Toy History:

Released in 1990 by Playmates, the original Panda Khan action figure came equipped with both a samurai sword and a futuristic blaster, emphasizing his dual role as a traditional warrior and sci-fi protector. Though he never appeared in the original TMNT animated series, he became a fan-favorite due to his striking design, rich backstory, and versatile weaponry.

BACK OF CARD

PORTRAIT OF PANDA KHAN

The Samurai Bashin' Bear!

VITAL PANTISTICS:

Accessories: Dragon's Claw Sword, Battle Axe, Fusion Blaster, Gou Hook

Birthplace: A small out of the way dimension

Height: 8'

Weight: 350 lbs. (That includes all his fur)

Pet Peeve: People who say. "Who gave you the black eyes?" 

Favorite Battle Hold: Bear Hug

Descended from giant mutant Earth pandas, a thousand years in the future, Panda Khans the samurai ruler of a genetically improved tribe of battlin bears. Leaving his alien world in search of great adventure, Khan boarded a Tong pirate ship and using the ancient art of Ting Zing Pao, time-traveled to Earth, 1990. Landing in the sewers, Panda Khan linked up with the Turtles for an unbearably good time.

Living by the code of the Khan, Panda Khan "Khantinues" to help the Turtles combat crime and cruelty wherever he finds it. Outfitted with his protective chain mail and samurai armor, Panda Khan's hard for the

Foot Clan to bear.

“Blades, Blasters, and Binary”

Amazon Link:

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Classic 4" Mutant 4-Pack Figure Bundle - Wave 2

Legacy

Panda Khan remains a standout character in the expanded TMNT universe—blending classic samurai storytelling with sci-fi action. His appearance in the toy line and Archie comics helped introduce a new level of worldbuilding to the franchise. With a loyal fanbase, he continues to be celebrated in collectibles, fan art, and TMNT lore discussions, with fans hoping for his return in future media.

Social Media Links: 

1.  The Collectors Lens Facebook
2. YouTube BIGMANILA
3. Instagram BIGMANILA
4. Twitter @collectorsLens
5. Pinterest BIGMANILA
6. MeWe BIGMANILA
7. (NEW) Collectors Lens - Facebook

Thanks

BIGMANILA

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - Tattoo / Tai San (1991)

 

TATTOO - TAI SAN

   

I've been a big fan and collector of TMNT figures for a long time. I used to get them as gifts or buy them with my paper route money. It's cool that I can still collect them now as an adult. Complete vintage figures are getting pretty pricey, but they're still awesome to collect. I recently picked up a Tattoo figure—one of the more unique and harder-to-find characters in the vintage line. It’s in great shape, and I'm stoked to finally add it to my collection!

Help support the page on patreon Become a Patron!  

TRY AMAZON PRIME!

Tattoo (Tai San) – Character Profile

Real Name: Tai San

Alias: Tattoo

Species: Human (Sumo Wrestler)

First Appearance: "Planet of the Turtleloids Part 1(1987), Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures #32 (May 1992, Archie Comics)

Residence: Japan

Affiliation: Foot Clan (formerly), Independent; ally of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Occupation: Professional Sumo Wrestler

The Flesh-etched Illustrated Man!

Background

Tattoo, whose real name is Tai San, is a famous sumo wrestler from Japan, renowned for his impressive strength, skill, and the mystical tattoos that cover his body. These tattoos are not just decorative—they are deeply tied to his personal history and his mastery of martial arts. Each tattoo serves as a spiritual emblem, representing different aspects of his strength, discipline, and inner peace.

Tattoo’s origins are steeped in the traditions of sumo wrestling, an ancient and prestigious combat sport in Japan. He began his career as a wrestler at a young age, training rigorously under the guidance of Japan’s finest sumo masters. His dedication and formidable prowess in the ring soon earned him the title of Grand Champion, one of the most coveted titles in the sport.

However, Tai San’s journey took a dramatic turn when he became disillusioned with the political corruption and dishonorable practices within the world of professional sumo. Despite his immense success, Tattoo began to feel empty and disconnected from his true self. Seeking a deeper purpose, he started to explore spiritual practices and connected with mystical traditions that allowed him to refine his skills beyond the physical realm.

This journey led him to adopt the spiritual name "Tattoo," symbolizing his commitment to honor, spiritual growth, and inner peace. His body art, which once symbolized mere accomplishments, now acts as a conduit for mystical powers, augmenting his strength, agility, and endurance.

Tattoo’s quest for balance brought him into contact with various supernatural forces and mystical beings, and he eventually became an ally of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Abilities and Traits

Tattoo’s strength and abilities come from a combination of his mastery of sumo wrestling and the mystical tattoos that cover his body. These tattoos are much more than decorative; they are imbued with spiritual and magical powers that allow Tattoo to channel extraordinary abilities. Below are some of Tattoo's primary skills and powers:

Sumo Wrestling Mastery: Tattoo is a consummate sumo wrestler. His size, strength, and technique make him a formidable opponent in any physical contest. His wrestling skills are augmented by his mystical tattoos, giving him the edge in battle.

Mystical Tattoos: Tattoo’s body is covered in enchanted tattoos that grant him supernatural abilities. These tattoos have various purposes, including enhancing his physical strength, creating force fields, and even healing him from wounds. Some tattoos can channel spiritual energy or summon mystical entities to aid him in battle. 

Spiritual Awareness: Tattoo possesses an innate connection to the spiritual world, allowing him to sense evil forces or mystical disturbances. This heightened awareness allows him to act as a protector against supernatural threats.

Enhanced Strength and Endurance: Tattoo’s mystical tattoos not only increase his physical strength but also provide him with enhanced endurance and stamina, making him capable of withstanding prolonged battles and harsh conditions.

Honor and Discipline: Tattoo’s greatest strength, however, lies in his unwavering commitment to honor, discipline, and integrity. His spiritual practices have made him a calm and collected warrior, able to make decisions in the heat of battle that others might falter on.

AMAZON LINK:
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles TMNT Classic Technodrome Playset - Amazon Exclusive

 Comics Appearance

Tattoo’s first appearance was in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures #32 (May 1992), published by Archie Comics. In this issue, Tattoo was introduced as a sumo wrestler whose beloved pet Chihuahua, Inky, was kidnapped by a criminal organization known as the Yen Brothers. The Yen Brothers used Inky as leverage to force Tattoo to throw a sumo match, but Tattoo refused to dishonor the sport, leading to a dramatic series of events.

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, led by Leonardo, came to Tattoo’s aid, rescuing Inky and foiling the Yen Brothers’ plot. Tattoo, grateful for their help, invited the Turtles to a traditional sumo match and gifted Leonardo a special katana as a token of appreciation.

In later comics, Tattoo’s mystical tattoos were explored more deeply, revealing that they granted him supernatural abilities. His tattoos were magical in nature and could enhance his physical attributes or even act as magical wards against evil. Despite his immense strength and mystical powers, Tattoo’s primary motivation remained to live with honor, spiritual balance, and to protect those who could not protect themselves

 Animated Series Appearance (1987 TMNT)

Tattoo also appeared in the 1987 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles animated series, but his portrayal was different from the comics. In the episode "Planet of the Turtleloids, Part 1," Tattoo was not a human sumo wrestler but rather a mutated hamster who had been transformed by Shredder into a human-sized sumo wrestler. Tattoo, in this version, was one of Shredder’s creations who was used to fight against the Turtles.

The Turtles, in this instance, discovered Tattoo when he was causing havoc at a pet store. After a brief battle with the Turtles, Tattoo was electrocuted and reverted back to his original hamster form. The episode ended with Tattoo regaining his freedom, and he was able to return to his natural state.

This version of Tattoo was far less serious and spiritual than his comic book counterpart, but it did help introduce his character to a wider audience.

Companion: Inky

Inky, Tattoo’s loyal Chihuahua, plays an important role in his life, particularly in the Archie Comics storyline. Inky’s kidnapping by the Yen Brothers is the catalyst that brings Tattoo and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles together. Tattoo’s deep bond with Inky is a testament to his compassion and loyalty, two traits that are central to his character

Tattoo is a formidable martial artist hailing from Japan, known for his unique ability to bring his tattoos to life through mystical means. Covered head to toe in traditional Japanese body art, each design on Tattoo’s skin represents a creature or force that he can summon in battle—dragons, tigers, snakes, and demons emerge from his body to fight at his command.

Originally a loyal member of the Foot Clan, Tattoo was exiled after clashing with Shredder over the use of dark magic. Driven by honor and vengeance, he now walks his own path, sometimes aligning with villains, other times challenging them, including the Turtles themselves. His complex code of bushido makes him a wild card—equal parts adversary and reluctant ally.

AMAZON LINK:

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Original Party Wagon

Personality and Philosophy

Tattoo is a man of great honor and discipline. He lives by the principles of respect, humility, and duty, always seeking to improve himself both as a warrior and as a person. His sumo background and mystical training have shaped his worldview, which prioritizes balance, inner peace, and compassion. While Tattoo is physically imposing, he is not quick to anger or violence. Instead, he always looks for peaceful solutions when possible.

He is deeply spiritual and believes that true strength comes from understanding oneself and respecting the forces that govern the universe. His alliance with the Turtles is based on these shared ideals of fighting for justice and protecting the innocent.

AMAZON LINK:

PlayMates TMNT Classic Turtle Blimp

Back of Action Figure Card (1991)

The Flesh-etched Illustrated Man!

Vital tattootitstics

Birthplace: Skinsville, Japan

Weight: 378.5 lbs. (with tattoos)

Favorite Food: Mussels

Heckled for being humongous, this heavy hero took his fat into his own hands and joined a secret sumo society to defend his honor. There he was branded Tattoo. Henceforth, he decided to engulf his entire body with tattoos to live up to his name. Now that he’s done up his dermis, Tattoo takes his tonnage to the Turtle Teens to help them fight the Foot. Armed with only his massive muscles and skin illustrations, Tattoo beats the baddies with his bare hands. To further fool the Foot, Tattoo’s tattoos even come to life. And when he’s not using his scary skin, this inked individual flexes his forearms and funnels his fat to flatten the Foot. What’s more – the green guys really like him, ’cause his tattoos remind them of pizza topping!

Accessories

• Terrifying Turtle Tattoos
• Sumo Snake
• Burnisher Staff

AMAZON LINK:

PlayMates Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Classic Pizza Thrower Vehicle

Relationship with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles:

Tattoo’s relationship with the Turtles is one of mutual respect. He sees them as fellow warriors who fight not just with strength but with honor and discipline. He especially bonds with Leonardo, who shares many of Tattoo’s values of discipline and leadership. Tattoo often serves as a mentor or ally to the Turtles, providing them with guidance in spiritual matters or helping them overcome supernatural threats.

Trivia:

• Tattoo is one of the few characters in the TMNT universe whose abilities are tied directly to his body art and spiritual practices.

• In the Archie Comics, Tattoo’s tattoos are shown to have magical properties, setting him apart from most other characters who rely on physical strength alone.

• While Tattoo appeared in both the TMNT Adventures comics and the 1987 animated series, his character was significantly more complex in the comics, where he was portrayed as a mystical sumo wrestler.

Social Media Links: 

1.  The Collectors Lens Facebook
2. YouTube BIGMANILA
3. Instagram BIGMANILA
4. Twitter @collectorsLens
5. Pinterest BIGMANILA
6. MeWe BIGMANILA
7. (NEW) Collectors Lens - Facebook

Thanks

BIGMANILA

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - Turtle Party Wagon

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - Turtle Party Wagon

Help support the page on patreon Become a Patron!

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Original Party Wagon

Originally The Party Wagon was just an ordinary van that belonged to Baxter Stockman (who, both along with the van, appeared for the first time in "A Thing About Rats"). After defeating him and delivering him to the police, the Turtles use his van to drive to Shredder's Mousers factory (and destroy it). In the next episode "Hot Rodding Teenagers from Dimension X", Donatello rebuilds Stockman's van into a vehicle more suited to their needs. The Turtle Van is equipped with all kinds of technology the Turtles found or developed, in order to find the Technodrome - and other threats - easily and fast.

Shell Battle Ready!

BATTLE ACCESSORIES: Time to party with Back Attack side mirrors, Foot-finder Radar/Blaster, Dual CB Antennae Blasters, Street-level Bomb Slide with two Whacko Bombs, and Shell-Proof Armored Windshield Visor

The Foot Stinks

SUPER STYLIN’: Looking good with Turtle shell hubcaps on Radical Racin’ Radial wheels, Grimacing Grill and TMNT Logo on the front, and more

Foot Tenderizer!

FOOT-POUNDING TENDERIZER: A Turtle can ride shotgun in the spring-action, swinging, Foot Tenderizer side arm and take out the bad guys

Turtle Power!

SUPER SPOILER: Pull back on this to release the Foot Tenderizer, Whacko Bombs and other party surprises

This mutant attack van includes:

• Turtle shell hubcabs and radical racing radials
• Shell-proof armored windshield visor
• Dual CB antenna machine guns
• Swinging spring-action Foot tenderizer (holds one figure)
• Street-level bomb slide for launching whacko bombs
• Foot-finder radar blaster

The Most Advanced Party Vehicle Ever Designed! 

Mutant Attack Van

Mean Grill's

After sending the Technodrome (along with Shredder and Krang) into Dimension X, the Turtles keep the van, and after Donatello's remodel, it becomes their main form of ground transport. The Van is driven by all four Turtles and (sometimes) April; in the last two seasons the van is accompanied by Carter's motorcycle. Out of the four Turtles, Leonardo spends the most time driving it. In Turtles Forever (2003) Raphael drove the van as well.

Green Machine!

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Heroes in a Half Shell

YouTube:

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - Turtle Party Wagon

YouTube:

TMNT - Turtle Party Wagon (Preview)

Social Media Links: 

1.  The Collectors Lens Facebook
2. YouTube BIGMANILA
3. Instagram BIGMANILA
4. Twitter @collectorsLens
5. Pinterest BIGMANILA
6. MeWe BIGMANILA
7. (NEW) Collectors Lens - Facebook

Thanks

BIGMANILA