Who is Rey Mysterio Sr. and five thing you didn't know about the ...

Mexican wrestling icon

Miguel Angel Lopez Dias, better known as Rey Misterio Sr., has died at the age of 66, his family announced on Friday. A legendary name in Lucha Libre, Misterio Sr. was the uncle of WWE Hall of Famer

Rey Mysterio Jr.

and the great uncle of WWE superstar Dominik Mysterio. His death has come as a shock to many in the wrestling community. The actual reason for his sudden demise remains undisclosed. His son, Rey Mysterio Jr. took to Instagram to share a tribute to his uncle. He wrote, “You did more than set the example of how to love and maintain a strong marriage and father 4 boys. You were the example and passed every single time... until your death with flying colors. 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," This heartbreaking news comes just weeks after the passing of Roberto Gutierrez, Rey Mysterio Jr.’s father, and Dominik’s grandfather, who died on November 17 at the age of 76.

As mentioned earlier Mysterio Sr, was a renowned name in Lucha Libre, a Mexican professional wrestling team known for its colorfully masked performers and aerial moves. Mysterio Sr debuted in the wrestling arena in 1976 and has won multiple championship titles from the World Wrestling Association and Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide. Amongst his most popular moves were high-flying kicks, which could quickly knock opponents to the ground.

With many appearances in the wrestling world, social media was flooded with condolence messages as soon as the news came out. Lucha Libre AAA wrestling association remembered the legendary wrestler in a post on X. It read, “We regret the sensitive death of Miguel Angel Lopez Dias, known as

Rey Mysterio Sr.

We send our most sincere condolences to his loved ones and raise our prayers to heaven for his eternal rest.” While a lot is known about WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio Jr., Mysterio Sr.’s life has been comparatively less explored, despite his significant contributions to professional wrestling and his role in shaping the Lucha Libre legacy. Here are five things you probably didn’t know about him. Born in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, Rey Misterio Sr. brought the rich traditions of Mexican wrestling to the global stage. His heritage deeply influenced his craft, combining athleticism and artistry to create a distinctive style.Rey Misterio Sr. began his athletic journey in boxing but shifted to professional wrestling after an arm injury led his trainers to suggest a new path. He made his wrestling debut on January 6, 1976, at a special Day of Kings event.

In 1987, Mysterio Sr. opened his gym cum training center where he trained famous wrestlers like Konnan, Psicosis, Damian 666, and his nephew Rey Mysterio.In the U.S., many believed Rey Mysterio Jr. to be Rey Misterio Sr.'s son, however, the reality is different. Rey Mysterio Jr. is not the biological son of Rey Misterio Sr.; instead, it is Michael Aaron who is his true son.He is often credited with bringing Mexican wrestling to the international stage. He took Lucha Libre to the global stage when he competed in World Championship Wrestling (WCW).