In the capital of Sinaloa, a banner was found with a threatening message directed at Rubén Rocha Moya, the governor of the state. The statement warned that if the fighting event was not canceled, the governor's family would face the consequences. Despite this, the governor denied that the threats were the reason behind the decision to cancel the fair and the fighting event.
On October 22, in Culiacán, flyers were distributed mentioning the governor, signed by 'La Mayiza', who threatened to end the abuses committed by 'Los Chopitos' and overthrow the current government, which they claimed supported them. Citizens were urged to report any abuse, corruption, or information regarding the governor and his cabinet.
In a meeting broadcasted from the National Palace, Rubén Rocha confirmed the cancellation of the 2024 Livestock Expo Fair and the Culiacán Fighting Event due to "factors that may provoke violence." The Regional Livestock Union of Sinaloa announced that the decision was made due to the crisis of violence affecting the region, but other events, such as baseball games, will still take place.
The confrontations between the factions 'La Mayiza' and 'Los Chapitos' of the Sinaloa Cartel triggered the wave of violence in the state. Since Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada, one of the co-founders of the organization, was captured, more than 322 deaths have been reported in two months. Despite the cultural importance of the Livestock Expo, its cancellation was due to the lack of guarantees for profitability and safety.
The Regional Livestock Union of Sinaloa assured that the suspension does not mean the end of traditions or the identity of the state, but rather an act of responsibility towards all those involved. Although there had been previous threats against Rubén Rocha, the governor noted that the presence of corridos singers was another factor to consider for the cancellation of the events, as everyone had to look out for their own interests.
