As the countdown to his 50th birthday begins, WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio is not only reflecting on an illustrious wrestling career but also contemplating his future in the sport. Despite initial thoughts of retirement coinciding with this milestone, Mysterio’s recent experiences in the ring have led him to reconsider.
After returning to action on SmackDown in time for WrestleMania 40 following a minor surgery late last year, Mysterio felt rejuvenated. “So I think – I knew I had a number in mind and I said I didn’t want to go past that. But I’m truly listening to how my body has been reacting. And my body has been reacting great, and my motivation is still on point,” Mysterio shared in a recent interview. His successful recovery from a meniscus tear, which required only three to four months of rehabilitation compared to previous, more intensive surgeries, has significantly influenced his decision to potentially extend his career beyond his initial retirement age.
Mysterio’s comeback was marked by a resurgence of old rivalries and the sparking of new ones. At WrestleMania, he teamed up with Dragon Lee to face off against Santos Escobar and his own son, Dominik Mysterio, reigniting a storyline that has deeply resonated with fans. Beyond the physical battles, Mysterio has led a reformed Latino World Order, a faction that includes top talents like Escobar, Zelina Vega, Joaquin Wilde, Cruz Del Toro, Angel, Berto, and Carlito. This storyline has rekindled discussions among fans about how the legendary Eddie Guerrero, who passed away in 2005, would have fit into today’s WWE narrative.
Reflecting on his dear friend, Mysterio expressed, “Oh, my gosh, Eddie. Everything would be much different right now, with Eddie being here. I’ve talked about it and I’ve kind of fantasized on how the story would even be if Eddie was around.” The thought of Guerrero still brings a surge of emotions for Mysterio, who feels his late friend’s presence each time he competes. “I feel an aura that’s around, that always is enjoying the moments that I have, whoever it is that I’m in the ring with,” he said, adding that keeping Guerrero’s name and style alive through his own performances is a blessing.
The emotional weight of Guerrero’s legacy is something that also touches Mysterio’s son, Dominik, who last year speculated about the role Eddie might have played in their lives had he still been alive. Dominik imagined Guerrero as a unifying force, likely siding with Rey before ultimately supporting his son through his wrestling journey.
As Rey Mysterio approaches this personal and professional milestone, his story remains one of resilience, passion, and an enduring love for wrestling. Whether he decides to hang up his boots soon or not, Mysterio’s impact on WWE and its fans is indelible. His journey is a poignant reminder of the physical and emotional challenges that come with a life dedicated to wrestling, as well as the profound connections that transcend even the sport itself.
