A Mexican professional wrestler has been arrested following the death of a 75-year-old referee who allegedly suffered a fatal injury after being slammed into the ring during a wrestling match in Hidalgo, Mexico.
The wrestler, identified as El Hijo de Fishman, 36, was detained by police after referee Gerardo German Pineda, popularly known as El Buho, collapsed and died during the main event of a show organised by El Patron Espectaculous on Wednesday, October 7.
Reports said El Hijo de Fishman, son of former professional wrestler Fishman, allegedly executed a double-underhook piledriver on Pineda during the bout against Mascara Sagrada.
The referee reportedly remained motionless after the move, forcing officials to stop the match. Paramedics were subsequently called, but reports said Pineda showed no vital signs when they arrived.
According to LuchaBlog, which shared details of the incident on social media, Pineda allegedly lay motionless on the mat for several minutes because those present initially believed he was pretending to be injured as part of the performance.
The report further alleged that no ambulance or medical personnel were immediately available at the venue, despite claims that such provisions were required for wrestling events in Hidalgo.
The circumstances surrounding the referee’s death, including the alleged delay in providing medical assistance, are expected to form part of the investigation.
El Hijo de Fishman was arrested at the venue and remains in police custody as authorities investigate the incident. He could face manslaughter charges, which reportedly carry a prison sentence of between five and 15 years if convicted.
However, the wrestler’s potential criminal liability will depend on the findings of the investigation and any charges formally brought against him.
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