Red Bastien Passes Away, More On A FCW Diva Release, More

Partial Source: The Wrestling Observer

— As noted earlier here on the website, WWE has released developmental Diva Sofia Cortez. Cortez competed on the recent season of WWE Tough Enough as Ivelisse Velez and while she did not win, she was signed to a developmental contract after the show. Velez was considered to have a good look and was good in the ring. Prior to her release, there were nothing but positive reports about her so this comes as a surprise.

— Rolland “Red” Bastien passed away today at the age of 81. Bastien had been battling Alzheimer’s for many years.

Bastien, considered one of the best in-ring performers of the 50s, 60s and 70s, was the master of aerial moves, most notably his version of a flying head scissors. He was a top card performer all over the world; best known for tag teams with the likes of Billy “Red” Lyons, “brother” Lou Bastien (Lou Klein) and The Crusher.

Bastien served as one of the officers in the Cauliflower Alley Club until the affects of the Alzheimer’s took their toll on him. Up and to that time, he kept up with the pro wrestling scene very closely. He was a big supporter of Mexican wrestling, and even started his own promotion in the late 80s in California. Bastien was also considered very open-minded compared to most in his generation when it came to changes in the business, new talent, new moves and such.

On behalf of all of us here on the website, we send our condolences to the family, friends and fans of Mr. Bastien.