RENOWNED ex-Lucha Libre AAA announcer Arturo Rivera has passed away at 67 after reportedly suffering from multiple health issues.
Rivera, also known as "El Rudo," passed away on Wednesday night after being hospitalized a week prior.
2
2
Lucha Libre AAA's Marisela Pena confirmed the beloved announcer's death on Twitter, saying: "With great sadness in our hearts we mourn the sensitive passing of Arturo 'El Rudo' Rivera.
"His iconic voice was part of @luchalibreaaa since its foundation, making a mark in the sports chronicle worldwide. Rest In Peace."
ESPN reporter Jorge Pietrasanta paid tribute to his longtime friend on social media, writing: "My great comrade Arturo Rivera has passed away. Friend and companion of a thousand battles, the godfather of one of my daughters.
"One of the people that life gave me the joy of meeting. Loved by many people, happy, endearing!! I love you, buddy!!! 🙏🏽🙏🏽," Pietrasanta tweeted.
Rivera was hospitalized on February 3 due to multiple health problems, and his family had recently requested blood donors.
Rivera was a well-known ring announcer, commentator, and interviewer in the pro wrestling business and did commentary for Lucha Libre AAA.
Most read in The US Sun
He first entered sports journalism in 1983, covering events such as the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, the 1990 World Cup in Italy, as well as boxing and Olympic events.
When AAA started to air on Televisa following the promotion’s founding in 1992, he joined their commentary team, paired with Dr Alfonso Morales.
The duo would often argue on-air, with Rivera supporting the rudos (heel wrestlers) over the technicos (babyface wrestlers) - where his nickname El Rudo was born.
Rivera's death came hours after famed Mexican wrestler Súper Muñeco passed away on Wednesday after also being hospitalized a week prior.
Súper Muñeco's cause of death has yet to be determined.
We pay for your stories!
Do you have a story for The US Sun team?
