The luca libre world is currently mourning the loss of beloved luchador Gran Markus Jr., born Cándido Robles Cruz, who passed away on April 24, 2026, at the age of 72. He debuted in 1977 as Tony Benetto before transforming into a masked powerhouse in the late 1980s, capturing the Mexican National Heavyweight Championship three times. As a cornerstone of the dominant La Ola Blanca stable with Dr. Wagner Jr. and El Hijo del Gladiador, he thrilled CMLL fans with intense rivalries and memorable championship reigns.
Gran Markus Jr. etched his name into lucha libre history with unforgettable moments, including his 1997 unmasking by Mil Máscaras and standout appearances at the 1996 Inoki Peace Festival. After capturing the CMLL World Trios Championship and the World Tag Team Championship in the mid-90s, he remained a respected veteran into the 2000s, showcasing remarkable power and versatility. Although his in-ring career eventually slowed, his enduring legacy remained as a heavyweight force.
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