Rey Mysterio is one of the most beloved and iconic professional wrestlers in history. Known for his high-flying style, incredible athleticism, and memorable mask, Mysterio has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Whether you’ve been following his career for decades or are new to the world of wrestling, there’s no denying the mark he has made on the sport. But who is Rey Mysterio outside of the ring? Let’s take a closer look at his life, his family, and his incredible journey.
Early Life and Bio: From San Diego to the Wrestling World
Rey Mysterio was born Óscar Gutiérrez on December 11, 1974, in Chula Vista, California, a city located just outside San Diego. Coming from a family with deep roots in wrestling, Mysterio’s destiny was seemingly sealed from a young age. His uncle, Rey Mysterio Sr., was a professional wrestler in Mexico, and he introduced young Óscar to the world of lucha libre, the Mexican style of wrestling that emphasizes acrobatics, agility, and fast-paced action.
From an early age, Mysterio was captivated by the sport, and by the time he was just 14 years old, he was already competing in matches. His natural talent for high-flying maneuvers quickly became apparent, setting him apart from his peers. With a combination of determination and a passion for the craft, he was able to train and develop his wrestling style under the guidance of seasoned professionals.
Wrestling Career: A Legacy in the Ring
Mysterio’s big break came when he made his debut in the Mexican wrestling promotion, Asistencia Asesoría y Administración (AAA), in 1989. His unique ability to combine lucha libre with an innovative, high-flying style caught the attention of wrestling fans, and soon, Mysterio’s reputation began to grow.
In the 1990s, Mysterio became a major star in the U.S. after joining World Championship Wrestling (WCW), where he competed against some of the biggest names in the industry, including Eddie Guerrero, Chris Jericho, and Dean Malenko. His famous matches against Guerrero, in particular, are still considered some of the greatest in wrestling history.
When WWE (then WWF) acquired WCW in 2001, Mysterio made the jump to the global wrestling juggernaut. His arrival in WWE was a game-changer, as he brought the exciting, aerial style of lucha libre to a wider audience. Mysterio became a WWE staple, winning multiple championships, including the World Heavyweight Championship and WWE Cruiserweight Championship. His victory in the 2006 Royal Rumble, where he lasted nearly an hour and won the match after entering at number two, remains one of the most iconic moments in WWE history.
Rey Mysterio’s Mask: A Symbol of Lucha Libre
One of the most defining aspects of Rey Mysterio’s persona is his mask. In lucha libre, wrestlers often wear colorful masks that are symbolic of their identity and legacy. Rey’s mask has become synonymous with his name, representing both his lucha libre roots and his desire to honor the tradition of masked wrestlers.
Over the years, Mysterio has worn a variety of masks, each designed with bright colors and intricate patterns. His masks are not just for show—they hold deep cultural significance, representing his respect for the history of lucha libre and his desire to keep the spirit of masked wrestling alive. His commitment to wearing the mask has also been a way of protecting his identity, which adds an element of mystery to his character.
Personal Life and Family: A Close-Knit Support System
Rey Mysterio’s family plays an integral role in his life, both inside and outside of the wrestling ring. He is married to his wife, Angie Mysterio, and together, they have two children: a son, Dominik Mysterio, and a daughter, Aalyah Mysterio. His son, Dominik, has followed in his father’s footsteps and is now also a professional wrestler, currently signed to WWE. The dynamic between Rey and Dominik has been central to many storylines in WWE, including their emotional father-son tag team matches.
Rey has always emphasized the importance of family, and it’s clear that his loved ones have been his biggest supporters throughout his career. His success is as much a result of his hard work and talent as it is the support and encouragement he has received from his family.
Age and Legacy: A Career That Defies Time
As of December 2024, Rey Mysterio is 49 years old, but he shows no signs of slowing down. Despite being in the industry for over three decades, Mysterio remains a key figure in the world of professional wrestling. His ability to adapt and evolve with the times has kept him relevant, and his love for the sport continues to inspire new generations of fans and wrestlers.
Mysterio’s legacy is already cemented as one of the greatest high-flyers in wrestling history. He has influenced countless wrestlers who have come after him, and his impact on lucha libre and wrestling, in general, cannot be overstated. He’s been inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame and continues to be an active part of the wrestling scene, occasionally appearing in WWE events.
