A wrestling show in Hidalgo, Mexico, turned into a death investigation after longtime referee Gerardo Germán Pineda, better known as “El Búho,” collapsed in the ring and died following a spot involving Hijo de Fishman. The wrestler was detained at the venue, and authorities are now investigating the case as possible manslaughter.
The incident happened during the main event at the Centro Deportivo Cultural 11 de Julio in Mineral de la Reforma during the overnight hours of October 6 into October 7. Local reports state that El Búho took physical punishment during the match, including what has been described as a martinete — the Mexican term commonly used for a piledriver — before collapsing on the mat.
Once it became clear something was seriously wrong, the match was stopped and medical assistance was called. Paramedics attempted to help Pineda, but he was later declared dead at the venue.
Ringside News has learned that police then detained Hijo de Fishman and turned him over to the Public Prosecutor’s Office while authorities began sorting out exactly what happened. The Attorney General’s Office in Hidalgo is investigating the circumstances under the legal classification of possible manslaughter, and his detention does not by itself establish criminal guilt.
El Patrón Espectáculos, which was connected to the event, issued a statement saying the company is providing Hijo de Fishman with legal assistance while also maintaining contact with Pineda’s family and representatives. The company said:
“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.”
It also said its legal representative has been in contact with El Búho’s family as the investigation continues.
“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 promotion made it clear that it does not plan to start throwing out additional details while authorities are still investigating what happened. The statement ended by mourning Pineda’s death and sending support to those close to him.
“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 deeply regret the loss of a life and express our solidarity with his family, friends and colleagues in the wrestling business.”
Pineda was no newcomer to Mexican wrestling. He had spent nearly three decades working as a referee in Hidalgo after previously wrestling for roughly 15 years as El Búho Negro II. During his long career, he officiated matches involving names including Mil Máscaras, Canek, Dos Caras, El Hijo del Santo, Último Guerrero and Blue Panther.
Hijo de Fishman remained in custody while prosecutors worked through the initial 48-hour legal window to determine whether there was enough evidence to bring him before a judge. Authorities have not made a final determination on criminal responsibility, and the investigation remains active.
What was supposed to be another independent wrestling main event instead ended with a veteran referee dead and one of the wrestlers involved sitting in police custody. Now the focus has shifted completely away from what happened in the ring as investigators determine whether anyone will ultimately face criminal responsibility for El Búho’s death.
What do you make of this tragic situation involving Hijo de Fishman and El Búho? Let us know your thoughts and leave your feedback in the comments below.
