The wrestling world is in mourning following the passing of Mexican wrestling legend Miguel Ángel López Díaz, known to fans as Rey Misterio Sr. The 66-year-old icon passed away on December 20, 2024, with the heartbreaking news confirmed by his son, WWE superstar Rey Misterio Jr., via social media. In an emotional message, Rey Jr. wrote, “Friends and family, I’m sad to share that my father, Miguel Ángel López Días, Rey Misterio Sr., passed away this morning… more updates to come. Thank you.”
Lamentamos el sensible fallecimiento de Miguel Ángel López Días, conocido como Rey Mysterio Sr.
Enviamos nuestro más sincero pésame a sus seres queridos y elevamos nuestras oraciones al cielo por su eterno descanso. pic.twitter.com/xnvqSndotS
— Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (@luchalibreaaa) December 20, 2024
Rey Misterio Sr. made his professional wrestling debut in January 1976, quickly becoming one of the most influential figures in lucha libre. Known for his high-flying, acrobatic style, he was a key figure in the global spread of Mexican wrestling. Throughout his storied career, he worked for numerous prominent promotions, including Pro Wrestling Revolution, Tijuana Wrestling, and the World Wrestling Association. Misterio Sr.’s legacy is particularly significant within his family. His son, Rey Misterio Jr., followed in his footsteps and became a WWE legend in his own right, inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2023. His grandson, Dominik, has also followed the family tradition, competing in WWE alongside his father.
Although Rey Misterio Sr. officially retired from in-ring competition in 2009, his influence on the industry remained profound. He is remembered for not only his wrestling talent but for his role in shaping the future of lucha libre and paving the way for generations of wrestlers. The news of his death comes just a week after the passing of his father-in-law, Roberto Gutierrez, at the age of 76, making this a particularly difficult time for the Mysterio family.
Rey Jr. expressed his grief and admiration for his father in a heartfelt Instagram post, writing, “You did more than set the example of how to love & maintain a strong marriage and father four boys. You were the example, and passed every single time until your death with flying colors… You fought until the very last minute and knew that your biggest fear was leaving Mom behind, but I can assure you that she will not be alone, and we will always look out for her. You are with God now and smiling from the heavens while we continue with the real struggle of life until we see again. You will never be forgotten and will always be loved, RIP Pops.”
Dominik, Rey Jr.’s son, also shared a tribute on Instagram, posting a video in honor of his late grandfather. The video was captioned “Q.E.P.D. Tio” (Rest in Peace Uncle), accompanied by a crown emoji, a symbol of respect in lucha libre culture.
The news of Rey Misterio Sr.’s passing has sparked an outpouring of support from fans and fellow wrestlers alike, with many expressing their condolences to the Mysterio family. One fan wrote, “Prayers for the Mysterio family,” while another commented, “Man, Rey is having a heartbreaking past few weeks. First, he lost his father, and now his uncle. Stay strong, Mysterio family.”
Rey Misterio Sr.’s passing marks the end of an era in professional wrestling. His contributions to the sport, particularly in popularizing lucha libre, will never be forgotten. As the Mysterio family mourns their loss, the legacy of Rey Misterio Sr. will continue to live on in the hearts of fans and the history of professional wrestling.
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