San Diego, CA & New York, NY – November 12, 2025
Bobadilla Productions, a trailblazing independent film company dedicated to authentic Latino storytelling, and Masked Republic, the global leader in expanding lucha libre culture, are thrilled to announce their dynamic partnership to bring Matadero, a bold new action-horror film, to the big screen. Penned by the visionary Hector Rodriguez III, this high-octane project promises to redefine the genre by blending the vibrant world of Mexican lucha libre with visceral supernatural thrills.
Matadero, created by Rodriguez in collaboration with Masked Republic, follows Rafael “Matadero” Muzquiz, a devout luchador who, after a tragic betrayal by a ruthless cartel boss, is resurrected by La Santa Muerte with a glowing green scythe and superhuman powers. Tasked with collecting seven evil souls before sunrise to save his murdered family, Matadero embarks on a relentless quest for atonement, battling narcos and a cybernetic mercenary in the gritty streets of Marin, Nuevo Leon. The film delivers a raw, unapologetic narrative that celebrates lucha libre’s cultural richness while exploring themes of sacrifice and redemption.
“Matadero is a love letter to lucha libre and Latino culture, infused with a dark, cinematic edge,” said Pablo Bobadilla, founder of Bobadilla Productions. “Partnering with Masked Republic, who are unmatched in their expertise and passion for lucha libre, allows us to craft a story that’s authentic, thrilling, and universally resonant. Hector Rodriguez’s script is a game-changer, and we’re excited to bring his vision to life.”
Hector Rodriguez III, a celebrated creator known for his long-running comic book series El Peso Hero and founder of Texas Latino Comic Con, brings his deep understanding of lucha libre and Latino narratives to the project. “Hector’s ability to weave cultural authenticity with gripping storytelling makes Matadero a standout,” said Kevin Kleinrock, President and COO of Masked Republic. “This collaboration with Bobadilla Productions is a perfect synergy as their experience creating horror that reaches beyond the genre’s traditional audience, merged with our drive to tell stories of luchadores and lucha culture that extend far beyond the ring, makes this a tag-team ready to take on the world!”
The film promises stunning visuals, from high-energy lucha libre choreography to supernatural effects, set against the vibrant backdrop of Mexican culture. With Bobadilla Productions’ commitment to nuanced Latino representation and Masked Republic’s expertise in lucha libre media, Matadero is poised to captivate audiences worldwide, appealing to fans of action, horror, and lucha libre alike.
Production is slated to begin in late 2026, with plans to cast Latino actors and luchadores and to ensure cultural fidelity.
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