A Mexican wrestler has been arrested after a 75-year-old referee died during a wrestling match following a dangerous move that left him motionless in the ring. Watch video here
The shocking incident happened in the early hours of Wednesday, October 7, during a wrestling event in Mineral de la Reforma, Hidalgo, Mexico.
The wrestler involved, 36-year-old El Hijo de Fishman, was competing against Mascara Sagrada in the main event when referee Gerardo German Pineda, popularly known as El Buho, was struck by a double-underhook piledriver.
The move reportedly left the elderly referee motionless on the mat.
What Happened Inside the Ring?
According to reports, the match was stopped after Pineda failed to get back up.
Paramedics were eventually called to the scene, but reports said they found the 75-year-old referee without vital signs and could only confirm his death. Watch here
The circumstances surrounding the incident have sparked an investigation, particularly over what happened in the moments immediately after Pineda was left motionless.
Wrestling outlet LuchaBlog reported that Pineda allegedly remained on the mat for several minutes because people initially believed he was simply selling the impact of the move as part of the performance.
The outlet also alleged that there was no ambulance or medical personnel immediately available at the venue.
The reported absence of emergency medical support is expected to form part of the questions surrounding the incident.
Wrestler Arrested as Police Investigate Death
El Hijo de Fishman was arrested at the location and remains at the centre of the investigation.
He could potentially face manslaughter-related charges if authorities determine that his actions contributed to Pineda's death.
Reports indicate that such charges could carry a prison sentence of between five and 15 years.
However, the investigation is still ongoing, and there has been no indication that the wrestler deliberately intended to kill the referee.
Authorities will have to establish exactly how Pineda died and whether the wrestling move, the response to the incident or other factors played a role.
Wrestling Company Breaks Silence
El Patron Espectaculos, the promotion behind the event, confirmed that the referee had died and said it was monitoring the developing situation.
The company said it had arranged legal assistance for El Hijo de Fishman to ensure that the ongoing process is handled according to the law.
It also said its lawyer was in contact with Pineda's family and their legal representatives.
The wrestling promotion appealed to fans and members of the media to avoid spreading rumours or unconfirmed reports while the investigation continues.
Company Sends Condolences to Referee's Family
In its statement, El Patron Espectaculos expressed deep regret over Pineda's death and offered solidarity to his family, friends and colleagues in the wrestling industry.
The company said it would refrain from releasing further information that could interfere with the investigation or prejudice the legal process.
The case remains under investigation as authorities work to determine what happened during the match and whether anyone should face criminal responsibility for the referee's death.
