Mexican security officials attempted to capture Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho” in a recent operation, but Oseguera Cervantes was killed in the attempt. He was the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, one that has quickly grown into one of the country’s biggest through bold attacks on government figures to protect their lucrative business trafficking illegal drugs to the United States.
Between the raid that led to Oseguera Cervantes’ death and the cartel’s response,
the Associated Press reports at least 73 people have been killed so far. The AP describes that response as “widespread violence, including blocking roads and setting fire to vehicles.”
It’s resulted in school closures and lockdown orders in several Mexican states:
And Lucha Libre is not immune. Dave Meltzer wrote in 4FWOnline’s Daily Update yesterday (Feb. 23) that ”a ton of wrestling shows have been canceled and more will be… I expect some stuff to be made official in CMLL in the next 24 hours.“
Sometimes, Meltzer’s not wrong. Today, CMLL announced they’re cancelling the show they had planned for tomorrow in Guadalajara:
“In light of the events of the last few hours in our country, and following the recommendations of security authorities, we have made the decision to suspend our event scheduled for Tuesday, February 24 at the Arena Coliseo in Guadalajara, prioritizing the safety of the best fans in the world.
“This decision reflects our commitment to ensuring a safe environment for the audience, the talent, and all personnel involved in the event’s operation. We sincerely appreciate the understanding, support, and trust of our fans. We will continue to provide updates through our official channels.”
No change to CMLL’s usual Friday night Arena Mexico show yet, which is in Mexico City nearly seven hours away by car — and usually a no-violence zone for Cartels. WWE has a live Lucha Libre AAA show set for this Saturday, but that’s in Monterrey, which is in a different state a ten hour drive from Gaudalajara. Hopefully the situation is calmer nationwide by this weekend, too.
