Biography
Rey Mysterio, born Óscar Gutiérrez on December 11, 1974, in Chula Vista, California, is a professional wrestler celebrated for his high-flying, acrobatic style and his ability to connect with fans as an underdog. Trained by his uncle Rey Misterio Sr., he began wrestling at a young age in Mexico, where he quickly gained recognition under the ring name Rey Mysterio Jr.
Mysterio's career took off in the early 1990s in Mexico's AAA promotion and later in Extreme Championship Wrestling in the United States. His innovative, high-flying maneuvers captivated audiences and set him apart as a pioneer of the cruiserweight division. In 1996, Mysterio signed with World Championship Wrestling, where he became a key figure in the cruiserweight division, engaging in memorable matches and rivalries with the likes of Eddie Guerrero, Chris Jericho, and Juventud Guerrera.
Following WCW's closure in 2001, Mysterio joined WWE in 2002, where he was marketed as Rey Mysterio. He quickly became one of WWE's most popular superstars, known for his incredible agility and resilience. Mysterio won multiple championships, including the World Heavyweight Championship, Intercontinental Championship, and several tag team and cruiserweight titles. His victory in the 2006 Royal Rumble and subsequent WrestleMania 22 triumph, dedicated to the late Eddie Guerrero, were career highlights that underscored his status as a beloved underdog hero.
In addition to WWE, Mysterio has also competed in various other promotions, including Lucha Underground, where he continued to showcase his skills and influence new generations of wrestlers. His contributions to wrestling extend beyond his in-ring performances; Mysterio has been a trailblazer for luchadores and smaller wrestlers in mainstream American wrestling.
Rey Mysterio's legacy is marked by his remarkable in-ring career, his role as an inspiration to smaller and high-flying wrestlers, and his enduring connection with fans. In 2023, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, honoring his incredible career and contributions to the wrestling world.