A STUNTMAN has died after reportedly losing his balance performing a Globe of Death motorbike trick.
Christian Quezada, 26, was zooming inside a metal cage with three other motorists when he fell and tumbled off his bike in front of a horrified crowd.
Terrifying footage shows the moment Christian slips, causing a pile-on with the other two motorcyclists.
One of the bikers, a 43-year-old Mexican man, was rushed to hospital where he was treated for serious injuries.
The third, a 26-year-old Colombian man, escaped unharmed.
Local reports suggest Christian lost his balance during the performance and then was hit from behind by the second stuntman.
WHAT A MUG!
Incredible moment tourist fights off bike muggers who tried to snatch her phone
Seemingly unaware of how serious the situation was, one crew member said: “Ladies and gentlemen, these things happen, it’s a live show.”
The trio were riding in the dark, illuminated by LED lights on their gear, during a hair-raising stunt at the Imperial Royal Circus in Naples on Friday.
Tributes have since poured in for the “great” stuntman, who is remembered for his “energy” and infectious kindness.
The Imperial Royal Circus said in a statement: “We had a serious accident during the afternoon show on Friday and therefore we are forced to cancel the upcoming performances here in Sant’Anastasia.
“You are a beloved and affectionate audience, so we will soon return to receive your applause. Thank you.”
It added: “Christian, you will always be in our hearts. You were a great artist.”
An investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Local mayor Domenico Esposito said: “It’s a very painful tragedy, I would say devastating.
“This circus had a large following, and although I have not seen their shows personally, it seems to me that they were very well equipped and had all the necessary authorisations to perform such a dangerous show.”
Friends and fellow performers have also shared posts and notes, remembering the courageous motorcyclist.
Friend and circus artist Jesus Hernandez said: “I’m in shock. I can’t believe your sad departure my friend.
“I send your family a lot of strength. Fly high and rest in peace.”
Christian’s trapeze artist girlfriend, Angelina Fedorchenko, shared a heartbreaking post online, paying tribute to the love of her life.
She said: “My world has fallen apart. My Christian is gone.
“We were together for eight years — every day, every road, every scene, every moment.
“He wasn’t just my partner. He was my home, my strength, my support, my laughter and my silence, the person with whom I truly shared my life.
“Christian lost his life during an incident on stage, during a motorbike act inside the globe of death.
“It all happened in an instant, so fast that I still can’t believe it.
“The pain is so strong that I can hardly breathe. I love him, and I don’t know how to live without him.
But I know one thing: his light, his energy, his courage and his kindness will stay with me forever.
“He always moved forward, believed, supported and protected.
And I will carry that strength within me — for him.
“Christian, my love…you are no longer in pain. Now you are in a place of calm and light.
“A part of me went with you, and a part of you will live in me forever.
Thank you for these eight years of love, for every moment, for everything that made me stronger. I will love you forever.”
Friend Carolina Santos added: “Today we received news that has left us with heavy hearts as a family. Christian Quezada from the Chilean circus family died in an accident at the Imperial Royal Circus.
“He and his partner Angelina Fedorchenko worked with us at our home during the pandemic. “During those difficult months, we got to know them deeply and they became part of our family.
In time, they went their separate ways, travelling to Europe and achieving success through their talent and dedication. We were always proud to see them grow, to see how two circus artists who had come into our lives by chance became a source of inspiration.
jungle rumble
I’m A Celeb star Ruby Wax’s secret feud with TV rival who ‘stole her career’
XMAS SPIRIT
Town goes wild celebrating ‘Xmas for alcoholics’ as girls faceplant in street
“Today, we accompany Angelina from afar, with all our love, strength and support.
“We will remember Chris for his energy and courage. He had a life full of challenges and passion for his art, the circus, and the good fortune of having walked through life with his partner and love, Angelina.”