Last night, during the CMLL event at Arena Mexico, fans were shocked when a minute of applause was requested in memory of Kato Kung Lee, as they claimed he had passed away earlier in the afternoon.
The legendary Panamanian, a true martial artist and one of the most innovative gladiators of his generation, has been hospitalized for over a week. On April 30th, he underwent surgery and his condition has been declared delicate, with reports even suggesting septicemia.
That's why the news of his death was believed by CMLL, who ordered a minute of applause to be requested.
A minute of applause is paid tribute to the legendary Kato Kung Lee, who died this afternoon.
— CMLL Lucha Libre (@CMLL_OFICIAL) May 7, 2016
During the live broadcast of the Arena Mexico through Claro Sports, the news spread like wildfire, and condolences came from other companies, such as AAA, in addition to several websites publishing obituaries. Around 10:30 pm, "Kato Kung Lee" was a trend topic on Twitter.
However, the information was false.
@RobViper @luchablog @davemeltzerWON Kato Kung Lee is alive. He's under observation at the hospital.
— Ernesto Ocampo (@ocampoxlaw) May 7, 2016
Ceremony for Kato Kung Lee, who died tonight.
Kato Kung Lee is alive. He remains under observation at the hospital.
Later, at Arena Mexico, paraphrasing Mark Twain, the audience was informed that Kato Kung Lee was still alive.
Don Johnny Lezcano Smith woke up a little better today, but he remains under observation and his condition is delicate.