The wrestling community is in mourning after the heartbreaking news that legendary luchador Rey Misterio Sr., born Miguel Ángel López Días, has passed away at the age of 66. The announcement came from his son, known in the wrestling world as El Hijo de Rey Misterio, who shared the news via an emotional Facebook post on Friday, December 20.
“Friends and family, I regret to inform you that my Father, Miguel Ángel López Días, Rey Misterio Sr., passed away this morning… I will keep you informed. Thank you,” the post read. Originally written in Spanish, the statement did not disclose the cause of death.
The legendary wrestler’s passing was also confirmed by Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide, one of Mexico’s premier wrestling promotions. In their heartfelt tribute, they honored Misterio Sr.’s monumental contributions to the sport, stating, “We send our most sincere condolences to his loved ones and raise our prayers to heaven for his eternal rest.”
The Legacy of Rey Misterio Sr.: A Giant in Lucha Libre
Rey Misterio Sr.’s career spanned decades, during which he built a legacy that left an indelible mark on the world of wrestling. Known for his skill, charisma, and dedication to the art of lucha libre, he became a towering figure in the industry.
From his early days wrestling in promotions like Pro Wrestling Revolution and Tijuana Wrestling to his success in the World Wrestling Association (WWA) and Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide, Misterio Sr. established himself as one of the most respected names in the sport. His influence wasn’t confined to Mexico; he gained international acclaim when he represented his country at World Championship Wrestling’s (WCW) 1990 Starrcade pay-per-view in the Pat O’Connor Memorial International Cup, where he partnered with fellow wrestling legend Konnan.
An Unmatched Career in Wrestling
Throughout his career, Rey Misterio Sr. amassed numerous titles, showcasing his dominance and versatility in the ring. Among his many accomplishments, he captured the Revolution Tag Team Championship with his son, the IWC World Middleweight Championship, and the WWA World Junior Light Heavyweight Championship.
But perhaps his most significant contributions came outside the ring, where he mentored and trained some of the biggest names in wrestling. As a celebrated trainer, Misterio Sr. played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of his nephew, WWE legend Rey Mysterio, as well as lucha icons like Konnan, Psicosis, Halloween, and Damian 666.
In 1987, he founded a gym dedicated to training aspiring wrestlers. This gym became a haven for young talent, producing stars who would go on to revolutionize the world of wrestling. His impact as a mentor ensured that his passion for lucha libre would live on in future generations.
— Dominik (@DomMysterio35) December 20, 2024
A Family Legacy That Spanned Generations
The Misterio name has always been synonymous with excellence in wrestling, and Rey Misterio Sr. was at the heart of that legacy. In 1995, he partnered with his nephew, Rey Mysterio Jr., to win the WWA Tag Team Championship. This victory was more than just a title—it was a symbol of their family bond and shared dedication to the sport.
Rey Mysterio Jr., who dropped the “Jr.” after joining WWE in 2002, has carried the family legacy forward, becoming one of the most iconic names in wrestling history. Now 50 years old, Rey Mysterio remains a cornerstone of WWE, where his ongoing storyline with his son, Dominik Mysterio, continues to captivate audiences.
Rey Misterio Sr.’s death comes just weeks after the passing of Rey Mysterio’s father, Robert Gutierrez, at the age of 76, marking a particularly difficult time for the family.
A Lasting Impact: Wrestling Until the End
Though Rey Misterio Sr. officially retired in 2009, his love for wrestling never waned. In 2023, he made a surprise return for a final match, demonstrating his enduring passion and dedication to the sport. Even after decades in the industry, he remained a beloved figure among fans and fellow wrestlers alike.
In 2006, his contributions were formally recognized when he was inducted into the Tijuana Sports Hall of Fame. This honor cemented his place as not only a wrestling legend but also a cultural icon in his hometown and beyond.
AAA paid tribute to Misterio Sr. Credit: AAA/X
The Wrestling World Pays Tribute
The news of Rey Misterio Sr.’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, wrestlers, and organizations around the globe. Social media has been flooded with messages celebrating his life and legacy, with many sharing memories of his incredible matches and heartfelt stories of his generosity and mentorship.
Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide’s statement perfectly captured the sentiment of many: “We send our most sincere condolences to his loved ones and raise our prayers to heaven for his eternal rest.”
Conclusion: Remembering a True Legend
Rey Misterio Sr. wasn’t just a wrestler—he was a pioneer, a mentor, and a symbol of the rich tradition of lucha libre. His influence extended far beyond the ring, shaping the careers of countless stars and inspiring fans around the world.
As we remember his extraordinary life, it’s clear that his legacy will endure for generations. Rey Misterio Sr.’s passion, skill, and dedication to the sport he loved will continue to resonate, ensuring that his contributions to wrestling are never forgotten.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. Rey Misterio Sr. may be gone, but his legacy will forever remain in the hearts of those who love wrestling.
