The wrestling world mourns the loss of one of its legends, Rey Misterio Sr., Rey Mysterio’s uncle, a pioneer in lucha libre and an instrumental figure in the careers of many celebrated wrestlers. Born Miguel Ángel López Díaz in Tijuana, Mexico, in 1955, Misterio’s contributions to professional wrestling have left an indelible mark on the industry. He passed away on Friday at the age of 66. While details regarding the circumstances of his death remain unavailable, his impact on the wrestling community continues to resonate.
A Family Legacy in Wrestling
Rey Misterio Sr. was the uncle of WWE superstar Rey Mysterio, a household name in the world of wrestling. The senior Misterio played a pivotal role in training his nephew, shaping him into the iconic performer beloved by fans worldwide. Additionally, Misterio Sr. was the grand uncle of Dominik Mysterio, who currently competes in WWE, further extending the family’s wrestling legacy.
The news of his passing was confirmed by his son, El Hijo de Rey Misterio (Miguel Aarón López Hernández), who shared a heartfelt message on Facebook. “Friends and family, I regret to inform you that my Father, Miguel Angel Lopez Dias, King Misterio Sr., passed away this morning,” he wrote. “I will keep you informed. Thank you.”
Tributes Pour In
The wrestling community has come together to honor the life and legacy of Rey Misterio Sr. Renowned wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer expressed his condolences on social media, highlighting Misterio’s significant influence. “So sorry to hear about the death of the original Rey Misterio (Sr.), Miguel Lopez, at 66, the uncle of the WWE star,” Meltzer wrote. “In his heyday, he was almost like Tijuana’s version of Jerry Lawler in Memphis. As a trainer, his track record matches the best. His nephew, the original Psicosis, Konnan, Halloween, and Damian all came from the same class.”
Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide, a prominent wrestling promotion in Mexico, also paid tribute to the legend, posting a statement on their social media platforms. “We regret the sensitive death of Miguel Ángel López Días, known as Rey Mysterio Sr. We send our most sincere condolences to his loved ones and raise our prayers to heaven for his eternal rest,” the statement read.
A Storied Career in Wrestling
Rey Misterio Sr.’s journey into the world of professional wrestling began in the 1970s after initially training as a boxer. He made his wrestling debut in 1976, quickly establishing himself as a force in the lucha libre scene. Known for his technical prowess and high-flying maneuvers, Misterio captivated audiences with his dynamic performances in the ring.
His career reached a significant milestone in 1990 when he participated in World Championship Wrestling’s (WCW) “Starrcade” pay-per-view. Representing Mexico alongside WCW legend Konnan, the duo competed in the “Pat O’Connor Memorial International Cup.” While they triumphed over Chris Adams and Norman Smiley in the first round, they ultimately fell to The Steiner Brothers in the second round. Despite the loss, Misterio’s performance on such a grand stage solidified his reputation as a top-tier wrestler.
Championship Titles and Accolades
Throughout his illustrious career, Rey Misterio Sr. held multiple championship titles, cementing his legacy as a decorated competitor. He and his son, El Hijo de Rey Misterio, captured the Revolution Tag Team Championship. Additionally, he was a WWA Tag Team Champion in the World Wrestling Association. His accomplishments extended beyond the ring when he was inducted into the Tijuana Sports Hall of Fame in 2006, an honor recognizing his contributions to the sport and his community.
A Master Trainer
Rey Misterio Sr.’s influence extended far beyond his own wrestling career. As a trainer, he mentored some of the most recognizable names in wrestling, shaping the future of the industry. Among his proteges were his nephew, WWE superstar Rey Mysterio, and other notable wrestlers like the original Psicosis, Konnan, Halloween, and Damian. His training methods and dedication to his students set a standard that few could match, earning him a reputation as one of the best trainers in the business.
A Beloved Figure in Lucha Libre
In the world of lucha libre, Rey Misterio Sr. was more than just a wrestler—he was an icon. His contributions to the art form elevated the sport, bringing it to new audiences and inspiring countless wrestlers to pursue their dreams. His performances in Mexico and internationally showcased the beauty and athleticism of lucha libre, leaving a lasting impression on fans and peers alike.
Remembering Rey Misterio Sr.
As the wrestling world reflects on the life and legacy of Rey Misterio Sr., it is clear that his impact will not be forgotten. His contributions as a wrestler, trainer, and mentor have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. While his passing marks the end of an era, his influence on the sport of professional wrestling ensures that his memory will live on.
The thoughts and prayers of the wrestling community are with his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Rey Misterio Sr., a true legend of the ring.
