El Canek

El Canek is the ring name of a Mexican luchador enmascarado (masked professional wrestler). His real name is not a matter of public record, as is tradition with masked wrestlers in Mexico, though some sources claim it is Víctor Rubén Flores. El Canek debuted in 1972 and achieved significant popularity throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s primarily wrestling for Empresa Mexicana de Lucha Libre (EMLL, now CMLL) and the Universal Wrestling Association (UWA).

Known for his impressive physique and strength, El Canek portrayed a heroic, "Indian Warrior" character based on Jacinto Canek, a pre-Columbian Maya leader who rebelled against the Spanish in the 18th century. His mask and ring attire typically feature Mayan-inspired designs.

El Canek is renowned for defeating several prominent foreign wrestlers during their tours of Mexico, including Lou Thesz, André the Giant (though disputed by some sources), and Stan Hansen. These victories cemented his status as a national hero in Mexican wrestling.

He held the UWA World Heavyweight Championship multiple times, establishing himself as one of the top stars in the promotion’s history. He also held other championships throughout his career.

El Canek continued to wrestle sporadically in the decades following the decline of the UWA, often appearing on independent shows and in CMLL. He is considered a legend of Mexican professional wrestling, remembered for his strength, charisma, and patriotic character.