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The Express Gazette
Thursday, October 8, 2026

Wrestler Arrested on Manslaughter Charge After Referee's Death During Stunt

Mexican wrestler Hijo De Fishman faces charges after a staged move resulted in the death of veteran referee Gerardo German Pineda.

US Politics • 3 hours ago
Wrestler Arrested on Manslaughter Charge After Referee's Death During Stunt

A professional wrestler, known as Hijo De Fishman, has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter or negligent homicide following the death of a referee during an event in Mineral de la Reforma, Hidalgo, Mexico. Referee Gerardo German Pineda, also known as El Buho, died Wednesday night after a staged wrestling maneuver went awry.

According to reports, Hijo De Fishman performed a planned "piledriver" move on Pineda, 75, as part of a skit after his match. The move, intended to be part of the show, tragically resulted in Pineda being left motionless on the floor. Those in attendance initially believed Pineda was feigning injury as part of the act, and he remained unattended for several minutes.

Paramedics eventually arrived and pronounced Pineda, a 15-year wrestling veteran, dead at the scene. Following the incident, Hijo De Fishman was arrested.

A hearing is scheduled within the next 48 hours to determine if Hijo De Fishman will be formally charged and face potential imprisonment. If convicted of manslaughter, he could receive a prison sentence of up to 15 years.

El Patron Espectaculos, the promotion responsible for the "Deslealtades" event, stated that they are providing legal assistance to Hijo De Fishman. The company has also confirmed they are in contact with Pineda's family and their legal representatives to manage the case respectfully. El Patron Espectaculos urged fans, media, and the wrestling community to exercise prudence and discretion, avoiding the spread of unconfirmed information to avoid hindering the investigation.

The company expressed deep regret over the loss of life and offered solidarity to Pineda's family, friends, and colleagues in the wrestling business.

Hijo De Fishman performed a pre-planned 'piledriver' move on referee Gerardo German Pineda

Pineda, a 15-year wrestling veteran, was left motionless on the floor after the move went wrong


Sources