A professional wrestler known as Hijo de Fishman has been charged with manslaughter in connection with the death of a 75-year-old referee. The incident took place on Tuesday, October 6, during a Lucha Libre event hosted by El Patron Espectaculos in Mineral de la Reforma, Hidalgo, Mexico. According to reports, the veteran referee, Gerardo German Pineda, widely known as 'El Búho', died after the wrestler performed a double underhook piledriver on him during a match against Mascara Sagrada.
The manoeuvre, which involves pinning an opponent's head between the legs and forcing it downwards while dropping into a seated position, left Pineda motionless in the ring. Despite immediate efforts by medical personnel to assist him, Pineda was subsequently pronounced dead. Following the incident, local authorities launched an investigation and arrested Hijo de Fishman on Wednesday, October 7.
El Patron Espectaculos released a statement confirming Pineda’s death and expressing solidarity with the referee's family, friends, and professional colleagues. The promotion stated that it is currently providing legal support to Hijo de Fishman and is coordinating with the deceased's legal representatives to ensure a respectful resolution to the case. The company noted that as the legal process is ongoing, they would refrain from sharing further details that could interfere with the official investigation.
Hijo de Fishman, who is the son of the renowned luchador Fishman, performs as an independent wrestler across various Mexican promotions. The event, which has circulated on social media, has drawn significant public attention and debate regarding safety and conduct within the sport. The wrestling promotion has urged fans and media outlets to avoid spreading unverified claims while the authorities continue their work into the circumstances surrounding the death.
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