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Because of the serious risks associated with it, the maneuver is considered prohibited in some Mexican lucha libre events. Paramedics later confirmed that the referee had died. The case is being investigated as possible negligent homicide, rather than as a confirmed intentional killing.
A Mexican professional wrestler has been arrested after a referee died during a lucha libre event in Hidalgo, Mexico, the incident is now being investigated by local authorities.The wrestler, known as El Hijo de Fishman, was taken into custody following the death of referee Gerardo Germán Pineda, better known in the ring as “El Búho. ” The 75-year-old referee collapsed during a match at the Deportivo 11 de Julio in Mineral de la Reforma on October 7. Pineda was involved in the match between El Hijo de Fishman and Máscara Sagrada NG when the wrestler performed a move known as a piledriver, according to local reports. The company said it was providing legal assistance to El Hijo de Fishman while also maintaining contact with the referee’s family and their legal representatives. Local reporting said the venue was later closed after authorities found that it did not have the required authorization to host the event.
After the move, Pineda remained on the mat and did not get up. The match was stopped as emergency personnel were called to the venue. Reports say that the piledriver was allegedly delivered without Pineda’s consent. Officials are expected to examine what happened during the match and determine whether the wrestler could face further criminal proceedings. The wrestling promotion El Patrón Espectáculos expressed its sorrow following Pineda’s death. The incident has also raised questions about safety arrangements at wrestling events in the area.