Referee dead & wrestler arrested in Mexico: what we know so far

Published: 41 minutes ago by Amanda Savage | Last Updated: 2 seconds ago by Amanda Savage

Based in Seattle, Amanda has been writing about professional wrestling for over four years for WrestleTalk.com. Focusing on breaking news, live show coverage and news informed features about WWE, NXT, AEW and TNA Wrestling, Amanda has nearly 9,000 published pieces to date.
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A tragedy in Mexico as after a match, the referee is dead with the wrestler that delivered a double underhook piledriver has been arrested.

36-year-old pro wrestler El Hijo de Fishman was arrested on Wednesday in Hidalgo, Mexico.

He was detained after 75-year-old referee El Búho died in the ring while officiating as the referee Fishman’s match against Mascara Sagrada for El Patron Espectaculos Lucha Libre.

Footage circulating online featuring Fishman hitting a body slam on the referee after a two-count but reportedly, he got back up and continued officiating thereafter.

According to those in attendance, later Fishman hit El Búho with a double underhook piledriver, and the referee never got back up.

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According to report from Luchablog:

“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.”

In light of the tragedy, El Patron Lucha Libre issued the following statement:

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“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 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 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.

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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.” transcription via 411mania

Gerardo Germán Pineda, “El Búho”

credit: @TelevisaPuebla

El Búho (real name Gerardo Germán Pineda) was a 75-year-old professional wrestling veteran referee in Mexico with a career spanning three decades in the ring.

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Our sincere condolences to the Pineda family during this difficult time.

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