Despite getting a late start on the announcements when compared to years past, WWE started announcing this year’s class of Hall of Fame inductees. And, to the surprise of many, start by announcing the name of an active competitor who hasn’t announced his retirement or doesn’t appear to be close to giving up his mask or hanging up his wrestling boots. Rey Mysterio has been officially announced as the first inductee into the 2023 Hall of Fame class.
Mysterio is a legendary professional wrestler who has had a long and successful career in WWE, along with popular stints in WCW, ECW, and other independent promotions where he’s clearly become the top Luchador in the world. He began wrestling in Mexico in the late 1980s under the name “La Lagartija Verde” (The Green Lizard) and later adopted the name “ColibrÔ (Hummingbird) before settling on the name Rey Mysterio Jr. in honor of his uncle, who was also a wrestler. He wrestled for various promotions in Mexico, including AAA and CMLL, and won numerous championships throughout his career. He also gained international recognition for his performances in Japan and Europe.
He made his debut in WWE (then known as WWF) in 2002 and quickly rose to stardom, winning multiple championships along the way.
Despite his small size and climbing the totem pole before smaller high-flyers were a regular thing in mainstream wrestling, he won the WWE Championship, World Heavyweight Championship, Intercontinental Championship, and United States Championship. He became a multi-time Tag Team Champion, having won the belts with partners such as Eddie Guerrero, Batista, and Edge. He was also the winner of the Royal Rumble and part of some of the company’s biggest moments.
His high-flying wrestling style caught the eye of fans long before he ever made his way to WWE. He was largely responsible for the popularity of the Cruiserweight Division in WCW and became a key member of ECW, despite their hardcore brand being mostly known for chairs, tables, and unruly fans who had a love of violence and good wrestling. Among his signature moves, he made the 619 (a modified springboard seated senton to the face of an opponent draped over the second rope) famous.
He became known for his elaborate masks and his colorful wrestling outfits became a trademark of his persona.
Is His Induction Being Worked Into His Storyline With Dominik?
Rey’s being inducted as an active competitor isn’t the only first WWE seems to be trying out. It appears the company is making his budding match at WrestleMania 39 with Dominik as part of his induction. Before Rey could thank the fans on SmackDown this past Friday, Dom interrupted him and tried to pick a fight. One has to wonder if Dom’s trying to goad his dad into a match will drag out all the way to the induction ceremony.
That might not sit well with every fan, but it will be memorable.
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