Misterio Sr. is the uncle of current WWE superstar Rey Mysterio.
Rey Mysterio is a name synonymous with professional wrestling, captivating fans for decades with high-flying manoeuvres and electrifying performances.
While the younger Rey Mysterio Jr. is a WWE icon, his predecessor, Rey Mysterio Sr., laid the groundwork for his nephew’s success.
However, on Friday, Rey Mysterio Sr., passed away at the age of 66.
The news was confirmed by his family on December 20, 2024.
In this article, Pulse Sports explores everything you need to know about the legendary wrestler.
Who is Rey Mysterio? The Wrestling legend who passed away
Who is Rey Miysterio Senior?
Rey Misterio Sr., born Miguel Ángel López Díaz, was a celebrated Mexican wrestler, trainer, and wrestling promoter.
Known for his contributions to Lucha Libre, he inspired generations of wrestlers with his skills and charisma in the ring.
Rey Mysterio Senior Nationality
Hailing from Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, Rey Misterio Sr. carried Mexican wrestling traditions to a global audience.
His Mexican heritage played a significant role in shaping his style, which blended athleticism with artistry.
Rey Mysterio Senior Death
The wrestling world mourned this week when Rey Mysterio Sr. passed away at 66. Reports indicate that the legend succumbed to health complications after years of battling various issues.
Lucha Libre AAA expressed their condolences in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, saying,
"We regret the sensitive death of Miguel Angel Lopez Dias, 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."
His death left an indelible void in Lucha Libre and professional wrestling communities.
Rey Mysterio Senior Family
Rey Misterio Sr. belonged to a family deeply entrenched in wrestling.
His nephew, Rey Misterio Jr., became an international sensation, crediting his uncle as a key influence in his career.
Rey Misterio Sr. also trained other notable wrestlers, extending his legacy beyond his family.
Rey Mysterio Senior Career
Rey Misterio Sr.’s wrestling career began in the 1970s, flourishing in Mexico’s Lucha Libre scene.
He performed under various promotions and was celebrated for his innovative moves and ability to captivate audiences.
In 1987, Misterio opened a gym with Negro Casas and Super Astro.
He trained superstars such as Konnan, Psicosis, Halloween, Damián 666 and his nephew Rey Mysterio.
Misterio is also known to have trained other wrestlers such as Cassandro, Hayabusa, Extassis, Tigre Uno, Fobia, Misterioso, Demus 3:16, Ruby Gardenia, The Warlord, and Venum Black.
Rey Mysterio Senior Achievements
As a wrestler, Rey Mysterio Sr. earned multiple titles across various promotions. However, his greatest achievement may be his role as a trainer, shaping future stars like Rey Mysterio Jr. and Psicosis.
Mysterio won IWC World Middleweight Championship twice, the Revolution Tag Team Championship once - with El Hijo de Rey Misterio, the WWO World Championship once, and in 2006, he was inducted into the Tijuana Sports Hall of Fame.
What is the Difference Between Rey Mysterio Senior and Rey Mysterio?
Rey Mysterio Sr. and his nephew, Rey Mysterio Jr., share a name but have distinct careers.
While Sr. dominated the Mexican wrestling scene, Jr. achieved global fame in WWE, becoming a household name and champion.
Rey Mysterio Senior’s Legacy
Rey Mysterio Sr.’s impact extends beyond the ring.
His contributions to Lucha Libre and wrestling culture remain unparalleled. As a trainer, he left a lineage of wrestlers who continue his traditions worldwide.
How Rey Mysterio Senior Influenced WWE
Although he never wrestled in WWE, Rey Mysterio Sr.’s influence is felt through the success of Rey Mysterio Jr., whose career brought Lucha Libre to the forefront of global wrestling.
Rey Mysterio Sr.’s legacy endures as fans continue to celebrate his contributions to wrestling. His life and career will forever be remembered.