Before Rey Mysterio Jr. became a global icon, there was another king who laid the foundation for high-flying lucha libre in both Mexico and the United States: Rey Misterio Sr. While he may not have achieved the same mainstream fame as his nephew, his influence on the wrestling world is undeniable. This blog post delves into the life and career of Rey Misterio Sr., exploring his contributions to the sport and the legacy he passed down to one of wrestling's most beloved figures.

Early Life and Training:

Miguel Ángel López Díaz, the man behind the mask of Rey Misterio Sr., was born on January 8, 1958, in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico. Initially, López pursued boxing, but his trainers suggested he transition to lucha libre due to his developing physique. He began training under his brother, and on January 6, 1976, he made his professional wrestling debut at an event called "Día de los Reyes" (Three Kings Day).

Career Highlights:

Rey Misterio Sr. quickly established himself as a prominent figure in the Mexican wrestling scene during the 1970s and 1980s. He became known for his innovative high-flying style, which incorporated acrobatic maneuvers and aerial attacks. This style would later become a hallmark of his nephew's career.

While he primarily competed in Mexico, Rey Misterio Sr. also made appearances in the United States. In 1990, he participated in World Championship Wrestling's (WCW) Starrcade event, teaming with Konnan in the Pat O'Connor Memorial International Cup. They defeated Chris Adams and Norman Smiley in the first round but lost to The Steiner Brothers in the second.

Training and Mentorship:

One of Rey Misterio Sr.'s most significant contributions to wrestling was his role as a trainer and mentor. In 1987, he opened a gym with other wrestling stars like Negro Casas and Super Astro. This gym became a breeding ground for future wrestling talent, including Konnan, Psicosis, Halloween, Damián 666, and, most notably, his nephew, Óscar Gutiérrez, who would become known to the world as Rey Mysterio Jr.

Rey Misterio Sr. played a crucial role in shaping his nephew's career. He taught him the fundamentals of lucha libre, including the high-flying style that would make him a star. He also instilled in him the values of hard work, dedication, and respect for the wrestling tradition. Rey Mysterio Jr. has frequently acknowledged his uncle's influence, stating in a 2014 interview, "Practically thanks to him (Rey Misterio Sr.) I am part of this beautiful sport. I grew up with him, and since he had no children, I was like a son to him. He took me wherever he went. Thanks to him, I got hooked on this sport."

Legacy and Influence:

Although Rey Misterio Sr. did not achieve the same level of mainstream success as his nephew, his impact on the wrestling world is undeniable. He helped popularize the high-flying style of lucha libre, which has influenced countless wrestlers around the globe. His role as a trainer and mentor helped shape the careers of several prominent wrestlers, including his nephew, who has become one of the most beloved and respected figures in the industry.

Rey Misterio Sr.'s legacy extends beyond his in-ring accomplishments. He is remembered as a respected figure in the wrestling community, known for his dedication to the sport and his commitment to developing young talent. He passed away on December 20, 2024, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire wrestlers and fans alike.

The Mysterio Name:

The name "Mysterio" itself carries significant weight in the wrestling world. Rey Misterio Sr. created the character and established its mystique. When his nephew took up the mantle, he carried on this legacy, adding his own unique flair to the character and taking it to new heights of popularity. The name "Mysterio" has become synonymous with high-flying, exciting lucha libre, and it all started with Rey Misterio Sr.

Rey Misterio Sr. may not be a household name like his nephew, but his contributions to the world of wrestling are significant. He was a pioneer of the high-flying lucha libre style, a respected trainer and mentor, and the man who gave the world the name "Mysterio." His legacy lives on through his nephew and the countless wrestlers he influenced. The next time you see Rey Mysterio Jr. take to the skies, remember the original king who paved the way: Rey Misterio Sr.