Mexican star Villano I passes away

By JOHN F. MOLINARO -- SLAM! Wrestling
Mexico is mourning the loss of one of its favourite sons as word leaked out late yesterday evening that Villano I, real name Jorge Diaz Jr., passed away in hospital due to a cerebral haemorrhage.

Diaz was the older brother of Villano IV and V, two Mexican wrestlers that Canadian and American fans would best remember from their days in WCW from 1997 to 1999.

Villano I had been in the hospital since December 13th, seeking treatment for a cerebral leakage. He had undergone surgery yesterday morning and was in a stable condition, before taking a turn for the worse and passing on at twelve noon.

Villano I was the oldest son of Ray Mendoza, one of the top stars and pioneers of Lucha Libre and the patriarch of most famous wrestling family in Mexico.

Villano I was one of five brothers who followed in their father's footsteps and wrestled professionally. Jose Alfredo Diaz Mendoza, a younger brother who competed as Villano 2, died on April 17, 1989.

Villano I was a former UWA World Light Heavyweight champion in Mexico and held the UWA World Trios Titles four times with his brothers Villano IV and V.

During his career, Villano I won the masks of several wrestlers in mask vs. mask matches including Azteca de Oro, Zorro Plateado and El Infernal.

Villano I is survived by his wife, Delia Valero and his two daughters, Alma Delia and Blanca Olivia.