The pro wrestling world was rocked by yet another death this week, this time from an in-ring incident at an independent show in Mexico. Multiple reports confirmed Wednesday night that Gerardo German Pineda, better known as Referee El Buho, has died at the age of 75 after being robbed by Luchador El Hijo del Fishman during a match earlier in the day. Luchablog reportsFishman has since been arrested and is in custody pending an investigation.
More details about the incident Reveal that the event took place in the state of Hidalgo, with promotions Lucha Libre Vanguardia, Producciones IRC, and El Patron Espectaculos all involved in putting on the show, the latter being represented by Fishman. Vanguardia has previously co-promoted shows with GCW in Mexico, most recently in 2025, while IRC has helped both AAA and CMLL promote shows in Hidalgo. including two shows for AAA this spring and two for CMLL this summer.
Pineda was competing between Fishman and Mascara Sagrada NG, two longtime rivals whose fathers, Fishman Sr. and Mascara Sagrada, had previously feuded, culminating in Sagrada unmasking Fishman Sr. in 2000. There is some speculation that the pile-up was done without Pineda’s consent, although this has not been confirmed.
After the piledriver, Pineda lay motionless in the ring for a few minutes. he didn’t get help in part because he was thought to be selling. Additionally, there were reportedly no emergency or medical personnel at the show, which would have violated Hidalgo’s lucha libre commission rules. When help arrived, Pineda was dead. In a statement translated by several websitesEl Patron Espectaculos confirmed Pineda’s death, that they have been in contact with Pineda’s family and provided legal assistance to Fishman.
Wrestling Inc. would like to extend its condolences to Pineda’s family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.