Wrestler facing 15 years in prison after referee dies in the ring

The wrestler was immediately arrested after the shocking incident during a match.

Pro wrestler El Hijo de Fishman (Fisherman's son) has been arrested and is potentially facing a huge prison sentence after allegedly killing a referee.

Fishman was arrested on Wednesday in Hidalgo, Mexico following his match against Mascara Sagrada for El Patron Espectaculos Lucha Libre.

Following the match, Fishman was arrested after his actions may have led to referee Gerardo German Pineda, known as El Buho (The Owl) dying in the ring.

According to various local reports, Pineda had been subjected to several hits during the match, with some reporting that he was even hit with an illegal piledriver.

However, while there is footage of the 75-year-old being hit several times during the match, and even slammed on the mat, it is unconfirmed if a piledriver took place.

Post-match it is reported that Pineda was motionless in the ring and, with reports claiming no ambulance or medical personnel on hand, it was too late for the referee by the time emergency services were called.

When paramedics arrived, they confirmed that Pineda was showing no vital signs.

Following the event, Hijo de Fishman was arrested and remains in custody with an investigation is underway.

The investigation will determine the circumstances of the death and any potential liability, with initial reports suggesting it is being looked at as a potential case of negligent homicide.

It also must be decided if the the wrestler's moves directly led to Pienda's death, which will be established through ministerial investigations and the expert reports.

As per Superluchas, there will be a hearing over the next 48 hours to decide if Fishman will be released or charged, with a a manslaughter charge potentially still on the cards.

If he is found guilty of manslaughter, it could result in a prison sentence of five to 15 years.

In a statement, Lucha Libre wrestling organisation El Patron Espectaculos wrote: "Given the unfortunate events that occurred during the early hours of this Wednesday, October 7, in Mineral de la Reforma, Hidalgo, during a wrestling event with the independent wrestler Hijo de Fishman and the referee Gerardo Germán Pineda, “El Búho”, who unfortunately lost his life, El Patrón Espectáculos informs.

"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.

"We deeply regret the loss of a life and express our solidarity with his family, friends and colleagues in the wrestling business. Sincerely, Patron Espectaculos."

SPORTbible have reached out to El Patrón Espectáculos Lucha Libre for comment.

Ben McCrum is a Sports Journalist at SPORTbible, covering Formula One, MMA, football and golf, previously working with TNT Sports and Manchester Evening News, having achieved gold standard in his NCTJ diploma in multimedia Sports Journalism with News Associates. Alongside writing articles, he's busy winning the office Last Man Standing competition and FPL League (finishing 32nd in the world in 2024/25).

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