El Grande Americano Calls Out 'Original' Rival Over AI Use

Mexican wrestling star warns opponent for using AI in vignette featuring Mexican flag

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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El Grande Americano, a popular Mexican wrestling star, has issued a strong warning to his rival known as the 'Original' Americano after the latter appeared in an AI-generated vignette that featured the Mexican flag. Americano accused his opponent of disrespecting him and his people by using artificial intelligence instead of speaking Spanish himself, and vowed that they will soon meet face-to-face without any filters.

Why it matters

This feud highlights the growing use of AI technology in wrestling promotions, which has drawn criticism from fans who prefer authentic, unfiltered performances. It also touches on issues of cultural appropriation and respect, as the use of the Mexican flag by a non-Spanish speaking wrestler has angered Americano and his supporters.

The details

In a vignette that aired on Lucha Libre AAA, the 'Original' Americano accused his taller rival of identity theft and branded him an impostor, while waving a Mexican flag before a cheering crowd. This angered El Grande Americano, who called out the 'Original' for using AI to deliver his lines instead of speaking Spanish himself. Americano said the Mexican flag is not an 'accessory for a fake video' and must be respected.

  • On February 15, 2026, the 'Original' Americano appeared in an AI-generated vignette on Lucha Libre AAA.
  • On February 16, 2026, El Grande Americano responded to the vignette with a warning on his Instagram Stories.

The players

El Grande Americano

A popular Mexican wrestling star who has surged in popularity in Mexico, portrayed by German wrestler Ludwig Kaiser.

The 'Original' Americano

The initial Americano character, originally played by Chad Gable before an injury, who has been accused of identity theft and using AI technology by his rival.

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What they’re saying

“What a f***ing lack of respect for me and my people. That clown doesn't speak Spanish. He uses f***in' artificial intelligence because he doesn't have the courage to say a single f***in' word for real.”

— El Grande Americano (Instagram Stories)

“He has the audacity to raise our flag. Shorty, our flag isn't an accessory for a fake video, fool. That flag is to be respected, to be defended.”

— El Grande Americano (Instagram Stories)

“When someone crosses the line with me and with us, they pay the consequences — for my colors, for my people, and for Mexico. We're gonna see each other soon, and this time, without filters, without f***in' artificial intelligence, face to face, shorty.”

— El Grande Americano (Instagram Stories)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.