In the early hours of Wednesday morning something went very wrong at an independent lucha libre event in Hidalgo, Mexico. The main event saw wrestler El Hijo de Fishman (the son of the legendary Fishman, aka “Veneno Verde”) squaring off against Máscara Sagrada NG.
Refereeing was Gerardo Germán Pineda, known as El Búho (“The Owl”), a beloved 75-year-old veteran of Mexico’s independent wrestling scene. As per a report from Cage Side Seats, either during or shortly after the match, Fishman delivered what’s been dubbed a forbidden piledriver, described by witnesses as a double underhook or package piledriver, to Pineda.
He fell to the canvas and didn’t get up. Those present reportedly first assumed he was selling the move – putting on a show for the crowd. But as the minutes stretched on and he still didn’t move, they realized something had gone very wrong. Paramedics were summoned, but there were no signs of life and, as per Cage Side Seats, “he died in the ring”.
“He died in the ring”
Wrestling blogger Luchablog has alleged that the event itself was unsafe as there were no medical personnel or ambulances immediately on hand: “The local reports are that Buho lay on the mat unmoving for minutes before anyone checked on him, thinking he was selling. There was reportedly no ambulance or medical personnel on hand; those are required for Hidalgo shows, and this card was running a bit under the radar.”
He added that, “When paramedics arrived, they could only confirm that Buho had passed away. The police are holding Hijo de Fishman in custody while investigating. A photo of the piledriver is circulating. Can’t circulate a photo of a medic who isn’t there, but that’s going to be as big a deal.”
The rules on this type of piledriver (which some wrestling fans are disputing as more of a body slam) are unclear, though one argues that this is a “package piledriver which was banned in that promotion so it’s reckless.” It’s also unclear whether this routine had been planned ahead of time and whether Pineda had agreed to being piledrivered.
Regardless, Fishman is now in custody, though it is unclear whether he will be charged with a crime. Promoter El Patron Espectaculos has released a statement confirming they’re providing legal assistance to Fishman, while also expressing “regret” about the death:
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.
They add: “We deeply regret the loss of a life and express our solidarity with his family, friends and colleagues in the wrestling business.”
Published: Oct 8, 2026 12:35 pm