Ex-Wrestler Konnan Undergoes Double Leg Amputation; He First Rose to Fame in Tijuana

Ex-Wrestler Konnan Undergoes Double Leg Amputation; He First Rose to Fame in Tijuana

Cuban wrestler Konnan began his training at Tijuana's Fausto Gutiérrez Auditorium, launching a historic career in professional wrestling.

Por Eric Sanchez el June 11, 2026

Wrestling fans are in shock after learning that Konnan, the well-known former AAA wrestler, is facing a difficult battle outside the ring following the amputation of both legs.

The news was first shared by Vince Russo, a former WWE writer, during the Coach and Bro podcast, where he reported that the Cuban wrestler had lost both legs.

Carlos Santiago Espada, known professionally as Konnan, initially underwent leg amputation surgery due to complications from a chronic illness. The procedure took place in March of this year at a hospital in San Diego, California.

However, during the June 8 podcast episode, Russo explained that he lost both limbs, leaving fans of the wrestler and his career stunned.

Shortly afterward, Hugo Savinovich, a close friend of Konnan, former wrestler, and commentator, posted a video on his podcast Lucha Libre Online confirming Russo’s account. Savinovich emphasized that he would not have shared the information without first verifying the facts with his friend.

“I told our president, Javier González, ‘I am not going to write any article until I hear it from Konnan’s own lips,'” he said.

While he did not go into detail about their conversation, Savinovich confirmed that he had spoken directly with Konnan about the situation, describing it as a sad and difficult time for his friend.

“Imagine being a man who hardly ever rests, and suddenly you have a double amputation of your legs. I don’t even want to imagine what he’s going through,” he added.

Keep reading: Baja California Finishes 3rd on Medal Table at 2026 National Olympics

Konnan’s Wrestling Career Began in Tijuana

On the podcast Fighting for Your Dreams with LatinLover, Konnan recalled that the first wrestling match he ever saw took place at the Fausto Gutiérrez Auditorium in Tijuana.

He noted that the venue not only introduced him to the sport but also became a significant part of his own wrestling story. It was at that same auditorium where he made his debut, trained alongside major industry figures, and later carried out promotional work.

One of the key figures in Konnan’s early training was Rey Misterio Sr., who trained him and helped him gain visibility in the industry. That guidance helped forge one of the most distinguished careers in the history of wrestling in both Mexico and the United States.

In light of the recent news of his leg amputation, Konnan’s friends, including Savinovich, are asking fans to send him words of support.

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