Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Mexican wrestling icon Miguel Angel Lopez Dias, better known as Rey Mysterio Sr., has passed away at the age of 66. The legendary Lucha Libre wrestlers, revered for his contributions to professional wrestling, reportedly died on Friday, December 20, 2024.
Accordigng to Detik, The news was first announced by his son, El Hijo de Rey Mysterio, through an emotional social media post. As of now, the cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
Born Miguel Ángel López Díaz on January 8, 1958, in Tijuana, Mexico, Rey Mysterio Sr. began his career as a boxer before transitioning to wrestling. He became widely recognized as one of the pioneers of Lucha Libre, a high-flying wrestling style that became synonymous with Mexican wrestling culture.
A Pioneering Career in Wrestling
Rey Mysterio Sr. made his professional wrestling debut in 1976, at the Día de los Reyes (Day of the Kings) event. He then quickly becoming one of the most respected figures in the industry.
Throughout his illustrious career, Rey Misterio Sr. wrestled for various Mexican promotions, including Pro Wrestling Revolution, Tijuana Wrestling, World Wrestling Association (WWA), and Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide.
He gained international recognition in 1990 after appearing in the Starrcade pay-per-view event for World Championship Wrestling (WCW) alongside Konnan.
Champions and Mentor
Rey Misterio Sr. claimed numerous titles throughout his career, including the Revolution Tag Team Championship with his son, the IWC World Middleweight Championship, and the WWA World Junior Light Heavyweight Championship. In 2006, he was inducted into the Tijuana Sports Hall of Fame, a testament to his contributions to the sport.
Beyond his in-ring accomplishments, Rey Mysterio Sr. played a crucial role as a mentor. He trained and influenced a generation of wrestlers, including his nephew Rey Mysterio Jr., who went on to become a WWE Hall of Famer and multiple-time world champion.
His guidance extended to several other wrestling stars, including Psicosis, Halloween, and Damian 666. Rey Mysterio Sr. was celebrated not only for his athleticism but also for his dedication to nurturing young talent.
A Legacy That Transcends Generations
Rey Misterio Sr. remained active in wrestling for over three decades before retiring in 2009. However, he briefly returned to the ring in 2023 for one final match, cementing his status as a beloved figure in the wrestling world.
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His passing marks a significant loss for the global wrestling community. Tributes have poured in from fans, fellow wrestlers, and industry leaders, celebrating his extraordinary career and enduring legacy.
Mexico’s Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide expressed condolences in an official statement on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to his loved ones and offer our prayers for his eternal rest.”
Rey Misterio Sr.’s influence transcended generations, leaving an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling. He will be remembered not only for his in-ring prowess but also for his dedication to mentoring future stars and preserving the spirit of Lucha Libre.
(Raidi/Agung)
