Wrestling Legend Rey Misterio Sr. Passes Away at 66
The wrestling community is mourning the tragic loss of iconic luchador Rey Misterio Sr., who passed away at the age of 66.
His son, known in the wrestling world as El Hijo de Rey Misterio, shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook on 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,” his son wrote in a poignant message, originally posted in Spanish. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
Mexican wrestling promotion Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide also confirmed the news, paying tribute to Misterio Sr.’s monumental impact on the sport. “We send our most sincere condolences to his loved ones and raise our prayers to heaven for his eternal rest,” read their heartfelt statement.
A Legendary Career
Rey Misterio Sr. — born Miguel Ángel López Días — rose to prominence through his performances with organizations such as Pro Wrestling Revolution, Tijuana Wrestling, and the World Wrestling Association (WWA). His international reputation soared after representing Mexico at World Championship Wrestling’s 1990 Starrcade in the Pat O’Connor Memorial International Cup, teaming with wrestling legend Konnan.
Throughout his illustrious career, Misterio Sr. won multiple championships, including the Revolution Tag Team Championship with his son, the IWC World Middleweight Championship, and the WWA World Junior Light Heavyweight Championship.
A Mentor to Generations
Outside the ring, Rey Misterio Sr. cemented his legacy as a renowned trainer. He shaped the careers of notable wrestlers like his nephew, Rey Mysterio — a former WWE world champion — as well as lucha stars such as Psicosis, Halloween, and Damian 666. His gym, founded in 1987, became a training ground for countless wrestling legends.
— Dominik (@DomMysterio35) December 20, 2024
In 1995, Misterio Sr. and his nephew teamed up to win the WWA Tag Team Championship, solidifying their family’s influence in the wrestling world. Rey Mysterio carried the torch, achieving international fame in WCW, ECW, and WWE, where he continues to perform today.
Continuing the Family Legacy
Rey Misterio Sr.’s passing comes shortly after the loss of Rey Mysterio’s father, Robert Gutierrez, who died just weeks earlier at 76.
Nephew Rey Mysterio, now 50, remains a cornerstone of WWE, currently engaged in a riveting storyline alongside his son Dominik Mysterio. The on-screen rivalry highlights the family’s enduring presence in professional wrestling.
Despite retiring in 2009, Rey Misterio Sr. made a triumphant return to the ring in 2023, showcasing his undying love for the sport. He was inducted into the Tijuana Sports Hall of Fame in 2006, honoring his contributions to wrestling and his local community.
AAA paid tribute to Misterio Sr. Credit: AAA/X
Remembering a Legend
Fans and fellow wrestlers alike are reflecting on Rey Misterio Sr.’s extraordinary life and unparalleled influence. His legacy, both in and out of the ring, will continue to inspire future generations.
Our deepest condolences go out to the Misterio family and the wrestling community during this difficult time.
Featured Image Credit: Aksonov / Getty / X
