Independent wrestling veteran Nestor Bustos, known to fans across the Southern California circuit as SoCal Crazy, died on September 30 at the age of 47 following a battle with colon cancer. SoCal Pro Wrestling announced his passing on Facebook, stating that he was surrounded by family and loved ones during his final hours after a multi-year fight against the disease.
Wrestling Career Across Southern California Promotions
Bustos established himself as a fixture of the California independent wrestling scene after making his professional debut in 2000. Known for his lucha libre style, he competed extensively for regional organizations including the Empire Wrestling Federation, SoCal Pro Wrestling, and the Alternative Wrestling Show. Over a career spanning more than two decades, he captured multiple championships, including four reigns as the SoCal Pro Heavyweight Champion, as well as titles with Alternative Wrestling Show, Vendetta Pro Wrestling, and New Wave Pro Wrestling. In 2009, SoCalUNCENSORED named him the Southern California Wrestler of the Year.
In-Ring Return and Training After Cancer Diagnosis
Bustos received a diagnosis of Stage 4 colon cancer in 2021. Following medical treatment, he obtained clearance to return to the ring in 2023 and organized the Hermanos Contra Cancer event to raise awareness about the disease. Fightful reported that Bustos competed in nearly 50 matches after learning of his diagnosis. His final match took place in June, teaming with El Mexica against The Lucha Kings at a SoCal Pro Wrestling event. Alongside his active career, Bustos worked as a trainer, serving as the head lucha libre coach at the SoCal Pro Wrestling Academy and sharing the ring with regional peers such as Scorpio Sky, Peter Avalon, B-Boy, and Tommy Wilson.
Support for Family Following His Death
In the months leading up to his passing, Bustos had experienced disease progression and multiple hospitalizations, according to SoCalUNCENSORED. A GoFundMe campaign remains active to provide financial support for his wife, Khai Karma, who is managing an autoimmune disease. Memorial arrangements have not yet been announced by his family or promotion.