Rey Misterio Sr., whose birth name was Miguel Ángel López Días, passed away at the age of 66 years, taking from the world of wrestling one of its greats. This news was confirmed on Facebook by his son, El Hijo de Rey Misterio, on December 20. Although no cause of death has been revealed, this represents a huge blow to the world of professional wrestling.
The Rise of a Pioneer in Wrestling
Rey Misterio Sr. began his glorious career in the square ring in 1976, after first boxing. The start of a glittering, decade-spanning career would see him star in promotions such as Pro Wrestling Revolution, Tijuana Wrestling, and the World Wrestling Association, he attained household status with unmatched skill and an enigmatic ring presence in Lucha Libre that inspired many wrestlers and fans in his wake.
One of the moments in Misterio’s career was in 1990, when he joined the World Championship Wrestling at the event Starrcade and participated for Mexico, along with Konnan, in the “Pat O’Connor Memorial International Cup.” His hard work in the sport, coupled with being a trendsetter in wrestling, had him winning many notable titles like the Revolution Tag Team Championship with his son, the WWA World Junior Light Heavyweight Championship.
A Mentor to Generations to Come
Beyond his in-ring accomplishments, Misterio Sr. was a man thoroughly committed to the development of the next generation of wrestling talent. Besides his son, El Hijo de Rey Misterio, and his nephew, WWE superstar Rey Misterio, other trainees included Konnan, Psicosis, and Damian 666. His influence went far beyond the matches he fought, shaping careers of some of the most celebrated figures in professional wrestling.
Even though Misterio Sr. retired from active competition in 2009, he still made sporadic appearances, his last match being in 2023. In 2006, he was elected into the Tijuana Sports Hall of Fame, further cementing his place as one of the most influential figures to have ever graced the sport.
Remembering a Wrestling Legend
Misterio Sr.’s death comes just weeks after the passing of his brother, Roberto Gutierrez, who was 76 years old. His family, including nephew Rey Misterio and grandson Dominik Misterio, have expressed their grief and shared heartfelt tributes. Dominik paid tribute to his grandfather with a simple yet poignant black heart emoji as he posted photos on Instagram.
The immense outpouring of love in the form of tributes from the fans and wrestling organizations speaks volumes of what Misterio Sr. has left within the wrestling world; one of these was given by Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide: “We send our most profound condolences to your loved ones, lift our prayers to heaven for your eternal rest.
While fans and colleagues alike remember the legendary career and life of Rey Misterio Sr., his contribution to professional wrestling will never be muted. His commitment to wrestling, as such a brilliant mentor, and indomitable spirit of his will be celebrated many years hence.
