George Kittle brought Penta’s “Cero Miedo” gesture to NFL games years before the luchador arrived in WWE. The San Francisco 49ers tight end first watched him at independent shows during WrestleMania weekend in New Orleans in 2018.
What caught Kittle’s attention was the attitude behind the gesture. Penta carried himself with a confidence that the tight end wanted to bring onto the football field. Before they exchanged jerseys, masks, and messages of support, Kittle was studying his swagger.
Why Does George Kittle Use Penta’s Celebration?
Explaining the connection before Super Bowl LIV, Kittle pointed to Penta’s entrances, exits, and presence throughout a match.
“Everything he does has purpose and I love that,” he told reporters.
“Cero Miedo” translates to “zero fear.” Kittle began using the gesture after big plays, taking Penta’s signature taunt to an audience beyond wrestling.
The two also exchanged gifts, with Penta receiving a 49ers jersey and Kittle getting a mask. Speaking to Sports Illustrated in 2020, Penta expressed his appreciation for the tribute and gave Kittle his blessing to use the gesture.
From a Mask in Mexico to a WrestleMania Hug
When the 49ers played in Mexico City in November 2022, Penta attended and gave Kittle another mask. After catching two touchdowns against Arizona, Kittle wore it to his postgame media appearance.
He told reporters that Penta supplied his masks and that they stayed in touch between opportunities to see each other.
By April 2025, Kittle was cheering Penta on from the front row for his WrestleMania debut. The two shared a hug before Penta competed for the Intercontinental Championship.
Penta told PEOPLE that Kittle had texted encouragement before the event.
“The support he gives me, I feel that.”
Seven years after discovering Penta during WrestleMania weekend, Kittle was there for his friend’s first match on the show itself.
