WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
  • El Hijo de Fishman was arrested after referee Gerardo German Pineda died following a piledriver during a match in Hidalgo, Mexico.
  • Reports said Pineda remained motionless for minutes before he was checked, with no ambulance or medical personnel present at the venue.
  • The wrestler may face manslaughter charges carrying a sentence of five to 15 years.
  • El Patron Lucha Libre said it was providing legal assistance while urging the public to avoid rumors during the investigation.

A fatal wrestling match in Hidalgo, Mexico, has led to the arrest of El Hijo de Fishman after referee Gerardo German Pineda, known as El Buho, died following a piledriver. The wrestler, who is 36, was taken into custody at the venue, as reported by Yahoo Sports.

The incident unfolded in Mineral de la Reforma during the main event of El Patron Espectaculous. El Hijo de Fishman was wrestling Mascara Sagrada when he delivered a double underhook piledriver to Pineda, according to the account provided.

Pineda did not move after the maneuver, and the match was stopped. Reports said that when paramedics arrived, the referee showed no vital signs.

LuchaBlog wrote on social media that people initially believed Pineda was selling the effects of the move. Its account described a critical delay before anyone checked on him.

Trump's Sovereign Wealth Fund: What Could It Mean For Your Money?

"The local reports are that Buho lay on the mat unmoving for minutes before anyone checked on him, thinking he was selling. There was reportedly no ambulance or medical personnel on hand; those are required for Hidalgo shows, and this card was running a bit under the radar," LuchaBlog wrote on social media.

"When paramedics arrived, they could only confirm that Buho had passed away. The police are holding Hijo de Fishman in custody while investigating."

The account also addressed an image of the piledriver that was circulating after the match. "A photo of the piledriver is circulating. Can't circulate a photo of a medic who isn't there, but that's going to be as big a deal."

Fishman Jr. was arrested at the location and may face manslaughter charges, which carry a sentence of five to 15 years. He must attend a hearing within the next 48 hours to determine whether he will be charged or freed.

FREE Gun Law Map: Laws Don't Pause During Social Unrest

Following recent reports that Congress is considering a nationwide voter ID requirement for federal elections, do you support requiring voters to show identification before casting a ballot?

By completing the poll, you agree to receive emails from Objectivist.co, occasional offers from our partners and that you've read and agree to our privacy policy and legal statement.

Mexican wrestling promotion El Patron Lucha Libre released a statement following the incident. It said the events occurred during the early hours of Wednesday, October 7, in Mineral de la Reforma, Hidalgo.

The promotion identified the people involved as independent wrestler Hijo de Fishman and referee Gerardo Germán Pineda, known as El Búho. Its statement acknowledged that Pineda lost his life during the wrestling event.

El Patrón Espectáculos said it was monitoring the developing case and had arranged accompaniment and legal assistance for Hijo de Fishman. The company said this was intended to allow the corresponding process to proceed according to the law and before the competent authorities.

"Our company is attentive to the developing situation and has arranged accompaniment and legal assistance for Hijo de Fishman, so that the corresponding process is carried out in accordance with the law and before the competent authorities."

The promotion also said its lawyer and legal representative had remained in contact with Pineda’s family and legal representatives. It said the purpose was to handle the matter appropriately while respecting everyone involved.

"The lawyer and legal representative of the company maintains contact with the family of Mr. Gerardo Germán Pineda, "El Búho", and with his legal representatives, to handle the case in the best way and guarantee respect for all parties involved."

The company emphasized that the legal process remained active and said it would refrain from releasing information that could interfere with the facts. It also urged fans, media outlets, and members of the wrestling community to avoid circulating rumors or unconfirmed claims.

"The legal process is still ongoing, so, out of respect for the authorities and due process, this company will refrain from issuing additional information that could interfere with or prejudice the facts. We ask the fans, media and members of the guild to act with prudence, discretion and respect, and avoid the spread of rumors or unconfirmed information, so as not to hinder the investigations and out of respect for all parties involved and their families."

The statement closed with condolences for Pineda’s family, friends and wrestling colleagues. "We deeply regret the loss of a life and express our solidarity with his family, friends and colleagues in the wrestling business. Sincerely, Patron Espectáculos."

The promotion’s statements were translated and shared via Fightful. Meanwhile, the investigation and the legal process involving Hijo de Fishman remained ongoing, according to the information provided.

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Objectivist. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.