Why Did WWE Fire This AAA Veteran?

The collaborative relationship between the Stamford-based organization and AAA Wrestling has officially reached a turning point regarding talent conduct. Recent reports have confirmed that Nino Hamburguesa (Ivan Flores) was released from his contract by management following a controversial incident at an independent show. The decision marks a significant stance on professional boundaries in the modern era.

The release was triggered after video footage emerged of Hamburguesa elbowing a fan who was sitting in the front row of a non-WWE event. According to Dave Meltzer in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the roster was officially informed of the firing on March 6. Management used the incident as a “teaching moment,” strictly reiterating that performers must never initiate physical contact with fans.

“Talent was told about this on 3/6 and to never touch a fan,” Meltzer wrote. “Flores was very popular with the talent who were unhappy that it happened and wished the outcome was different, but also understood that… with WWE owning, you can’t be doing stuff like that.”

While some wrestlers expressed disappointment over the outcome—noting that Hamburguesa was a beloved figure backstage—there was a general understanding of the company’s rigorous corporate standards. In previous years under AAA management, such an incident might have been dismissed, but the current ownership structure prioritizes fan safety and professional conduct above all else.

This news comes as several other AAA and CMLL stars continue to transition into the WWE system through various partnerships. The organization is currently preparing for a massive global showcase at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas, where several international athletes are expected to be featured. The “no touch” policy is now officially a primary directive for all athletes as they represent the brand across both major broadcasts and independent appearances this spring.

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