The Priest Who Wrestled for Orphans 🤼

A Calling Beyond the Church

Sergio Gutiérrez Benítez, born in 1945 in Mexico, felt a strong calling to the priesthood. After becoming a Catholic priest, he was moved by the plight of orphans in his community. Determined to help, he founded an orphanage in Texcoco, Mexico, but soon realized that sustaining it financially was a significant challenge.

An Unconventional Path

Faced with limited resources, Father Sergio turned to an unexpected source of income—professional wrestling. Inspired by the popular Mexican lucha libre culture, he adopted the persona of “Fray Tormenta,” meaning “Friar Storm.” Donning a mask and cape, he entered the wrestling ring in 1973, keeping his identity as a priest hidden from the public.

Wrestling for a Cause

For 23 years, Fray Tormenta fought in the ring, earning money that he used to support his orphanage. His wrestling career became legendary in Mexico, not just for his in-ring prowess but for the cause behind it. Fray Tormenta’s earnings helped provide food, shelter, and education to the orphans under his care.

Inspiration for Generations

Even after retiring from wrestling in 1997, Fray Tormenta continued his work at the orphanage. His story inspired the 2006 film Nacho Libre, starring Jack Black, and made Fray Tormenta a beloved figure both in and out of the wrestling community. His dedication to his faith and the orphans he cared for remains an extraordinary chapter in the history of lucha libre.

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