Renowned Mexican wrestler Rey Mysterio Sr., the uncle of WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio Jr. and great uncle of WWE star Dominik Mysterio, has died at the age of 66, his family confirmed on Friday.
Born Miguel Angel Lopez Dias, Mysterio Sr. made a significant mark in the world of professional wrestling. He began his career in January 1976 and went on to compete for various promotions, including Pro Wrestling Revolution, Tijuana Wrestling, and the World Wrestling Association (WWA).
Mysterio Sr. was known as a pioneering figure in Mexican wrestling and won several championships, including the WWA World Junior Light Heavyweight Championship. He also claimed the WWA Tag Team Championship alongside his nephew, Rey Mysterio Jr.
The wrestling icon, often referred to as Rey Mysterio Sr. to distinguish him from his nephew, was a key figure in the Mysterio wrestling legacy, with both his grand-nephew, Dominik, and grand-niece, Aalyah, making appearances in WWE.
The news of Mysterio Sr.’s passing comes just weeks after the death of his brother, Roberto Gutierrez, Rey Mysterio Jr.’s father and Dominik’s grandfather, who passed away on November 17 at the age of 76.
Following his father’s death, Rey Mysterio Jr. shared an emotional tribute on Instagram: “You did more than set the example of how to love & maintain a strong marriage and father 4 boys, you were the example and passed every single time until your death with flying colors. Excellent husband, loving father, beautiful grandfather, incredible son & brother, and amazing father in law.”
Fans and colleagues on social media have shared their condolences and fond memories of the Mexican wrestling legend.