Hijo de Fishman arrested following the death of referee El Búho during a fight in Mexico

The veteran official passed away after taking a piledriver impact

The promotion company is cooperating with the police investigation into the case

Hijo de Fishman
Photo Credit: @hijodefishman (Instagram)
Antonio Rubio
Antonio Rubio
Published 10/08/2026

The Mexican wrestling world is in mourning after the death of referee Gerardo Germán Pineda, known as "El Búho", during the event "Deslealtades," held in the early hours of October 7th in Mineral de la Reforma, Hidalgo. Pineda, 75 years old and with a long career in the wrestling rings, was left unconscious after receiving a piledriver -a variant of the move- during the match between Hijo de Fishman and Máscara Sagrada NG. Emergency services responded to the scene, but ultimately could not save the veteran referee's life. Following the incident, Hijo de Fishman was arrested and placed in custody, as authorities have opened an investigation for possible reckless homicide.

At the moment, the exact medical cause of death and the circumstances surrounding the maneuver are still to be clarified. El Patrón Espectáculos has confirmed that they are providing legal assistance to the wrestler and has urged caution in spreading rumors as the legal process unfolds. Additionally, authorities reportedly partially shut down the venue upon discovering that the event allegedly did not have the necessary permits for its celebration.

Official statement from the promoter

"In light of the regrettable events that occurred during the early hours of Wednesday, October 7th, in Mineral de la Reforma, Hidalgo, during a wrestling event involving independent wrestler Hijo de Fishman and referee Gerardo Germán Pineda, "El Búho," who tragically lost his life, El Patrón Espectáculos informs:

Our company is closely monitoring the situation and has arranged for legal support and assistance for Hijo de Fishman, with the aim of ensuring that the corresponding process is carried out in accordance with the law and before the competent authorities.

The company's lawyer and legal representative are in contact with Mr. Gerardo Germán Pineda's family, "El Búho," as well as with their legal representatives, to handle the case in the best possible way and ensure respect for all parties involved.

The legal process is ongoing, and out of respect for the authorities and due process, this company will refrain from providing additional information that could interfere or harm the clarification of the facts. We ask fans, media, and industry members to act with prudence, discretion, and respect, and to avoid spreading rumors or unconfirmed information, in order 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 world of wrestling. Sincerely, Patron Espectáculos".

The legacy of "El Búho"

Beyond the circumstances of his death, Gerardo Germán Pineda leaves behind an extensive career linked to Mexican wrestling. Before becoming a referee, he wrestled for 15 years under the name "El Búho Negro II," before embarking on a nearly three-decade career as a referee.

Throughout those years, he had the opportunity to participate in matches featuring some of the great figures of this sport, such as Mil Máscaras, Dos Caras, Canek, El Hijo del Santo, Blue Panther, and Último Guerrero. His death marks the loss of a veteran and recognized figure in Hidalgo's wrestling scene, leaving behind several decades dedicated to the wrestling rings.