TL;DR
Rey Mysterio, born in San Diego, is American by birth but deeply tied to Mexican wrestling culture. He began his career in Mexico as Rey Misterio Jr, performing in legendary venues like Arena México and Arena Coliseo. Trained by his uncle Miguel Ángel López Díaz, the original Rey Misterio, he later transitioned to AAA, WCW, and finally WWE—where his name was changed to Rey Mysterio due to copyright rules. Today, he’s a living icon of Lucha Libre whose legacy transcends borders.
Rey Mysterio: American by Birth, Mexican by Heart
If you’re a fan of Lucha Libre or professional wrestling, there’s no doubt you’ve heard of the legendary Rey Mysterio. With his high-flying maneuvers, unmatched speed, and iconic masks, he’s become one of the most recognizable figures in global wrestling. But behind the mask is a powerful story that bridges two countries and one rich cultural tradition.
Born in the U.S., Raised by Lucha Libre
Rey Mysterio, born Óscar Gutiérrez in San Diego, California, grew up in a Mexican-American household steeped in the traditions of Lucha Libre. His mentor and uncle, Miguel Ángel López Díaz, was better known as the original Rey Misterio—a revered luchador in Mexico.
Following in his uncle’s footsteps, young Óscar took on the name Rey Misterio Jr. when he began wrestling professionally in Mexico. His early career was rooted in passion, discipline, and respect for the art of Lucha Libre.
A Mexican Debut in the Temple of Lucha Libre
Rey Misterio Jr. made his professional debut with the Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL), performing in some of Mexico’s most iconic venues: Arena México and Arena Coliseo. These arenas are the spiritual homes of Lucha Libre, and it was there that his career began to flourish.
Later, he joined Lucha Libre AAA, where his spectacular high-flying style captivated fans and elevated his status to that of a national sensation.
Crossing Over and Evolving: WCW to WWE
In the 1990s, Mysterio made the leap to the United States, signing with WCW, where he helped introduce Lucha Libre to a wider North American audience and became one of the standout stars of the cruiserweight division.
When he eventually signed with WWF (now WWE), there was a key change: due to copyright concerns, the name Rey Misterio Jr. was modified to Rey Mysterio. Despite the name change, the essence of the character—and the legacy of his family—remained untouched.
Career Highlights
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Debuted as Rey Misterio Jr. in CMLL, wrestling in Arena México and Arena Coliseo
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Trained by his uncle, Miguel Ángel López Díaz, the original Rey Misterio
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Starred in Lucha Libre AAA, becoming a fan favorite across Mexico
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Helped popularize Lucha Libre internationally through WCW
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Achieved global stardom in WWE as Rey Mysterio
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Multiple-time WWE World Champion
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2006 Royal Rumble Winner
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WWE Hall of Fame Inductee (2023)
An Icon of Two Worlds
Though born in the U.S., Rey Mysterio has always carried Mexico in his soul and on his mask. His performances have introduced millions around the world to Lucha Libre, honoring its traditions while reinventing its possibilities. Every move, every match, is a tribute to the culture that shaped him.
A Legacy That Endures
Rey Mysterio is more than a wrestler—he is a cultural bridge, a generational talent, and a symbol of identity. His legacy, built on the foundation laid by his uncle and polished in the spotlight of international fame, continues to inspire fans across the globe.
In the world of Lucha Libre and beyond, Rey Mysterio will forever be a name that means honor, heart, and heritage.
