Guadalajara, Mexico – The vibrant world of lucha libre is facing a temporary pause as Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL) suspended its weekly show in Arena Guadalajara, a decision prompted by escalating violence in the Jalisco state following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho.” The suspension, announced Monday afternoon on X (formerly Twitter), underscores the real-world impact of the ongoing security crisis in Mexico on even its most beloved cultural traditions. This disruption to the CMLL schedule, a promotion with a history stretching back to 1933, highlights the precarious situation unfolding in the region and the difficult choices facing event organizers.
The unrest began Sunday after Mexican military forces, with assistance from US Intelligence, confirmed the death of El Mencho, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in Tapalpa, Jalisco. The operation aimed at arresting Cervantes triggered a swift and violent response from cartel members, who have since engaged in widespread acts of intimidation and destruction throughout Jalisco. These actions include setting up roadblocks, destroying vehicles, and attacking members of the Mexican National Guard, resulting in multiple deaths, according to reports.
📄 COMUNICADO OFICIAL:
Suspensión de la función del Martes 24 de Febrero en la Arena Coliseo de Guadalajara.#MartesDeGlamourCMLL pic.twitter.com/eVx1UjAkG3— Lucha Libre CMLL (@CMLL_OFICIAL) February 23, 2026
A State Responds to Violence
In response to the escalating violence, Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro ordered the closure of all schools throughout the state on Monday. This decision, alongside the postponement of other events including Sunday’s lucha shows, demonstrates the severity of the situation and the government’s priority of ensuring public safety. The cancellation of the CMLL event in Arena Guadalajara is just one example of the widespread disruption caused by the cartel’s reaction to El Mencho’s death.
The impact of the violence has extended beyond Jalisco’s borders. A LigaMX soccer game in Queretaro was canceled, and a major highway connecting Mexico City to Puebla was temporarily shut down, further illustrating the far-reaching consequences of the unrest. CMLL’s decision to suspend the Guadalajara show is a precautionary measure taken to protect both performers and fans amidst the volatile environment.
CMLL’s Schedule and the Future of Lucha Libre in Mexico
As of now, Tuesday’s show in Guadalajara is the only CMLL event directly affected. Monday’s show in Arena Puebla proceeded as scheduled, and the promotion anticipates holding its upcoming shows on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday in Arena Mexico and Arena Coliseo in Mexico City. Yet, the situation remains fluid, and CMLL is undoubtedly monitoring developments closely. The promotion enjoyed a successful 2025, and had begun 2026 with a partnership with Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling, but this current crisis presents a significant challenge.
Founded in 1933 as Empresa Mexicana de Lucha Libre (EMLL) by Salvador Lutteroth, CMLL is the oldest professional wrestling promotion still in existence. The organization has develop into a cornerstone of Mexican culture, developing a unique style of wrestling known as “lucha libre” that emphasizes athleticism, elaborate masks, and dramatic storylines. The temporary disruption to its schedule serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Mexico and the importance of prioritizing safety and security.
The cancellation of events like the CMLL show in Guadalajara underscores the broader impact of organized crime on daily life in Mexico. While the immediate focus is on restoring order and ensuring public safety, the long-term implications for cultural events and tourism remain uncertain. The situation highlights the complex interplay between security concerns, economic stability, and the preservation of cultural traditions.
CMLL has not yet announced a rescheduled date for the Guadalajara show. The promotion is expected to provide further updates as the situation in Jalisco evolves. Fans are encouraged to follow CMLL’s official channels for the latest information and to prioritize their safety during this period of unrest.
The next scheduled CMLL event is Tuesday’s show in Arena Mexico, which, as of this writing, is still expected to grab place. The promotion will continue to assess the security situation and make adjustments to its schedule as necessary. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
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