Net Worth: $10 million
Full Name: Óscar Gutiérrez
Ring Name: Rey Mysterio
Date of Birth: December 11, 1974
Hometown: Chula Vista, California
Profession: Professional Wrestler
Wrestling Style: Lucha Libre, High-Flying
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Rey Mysterio, born Óscar Gutiérrez, hails from a family deeply rooted in professional wrestling. Growing up in Chula Vista, California, he was introduced to the sport at a young age through his uncle, who also wrestled under the name Rey Mysterio. By 14 years old, he was already competing in the Lucha Libre scene in Mexico, where he was trained in the art of high-flying, acrobatic wrestling moves. In 1991, he adopted the name Rey Mysterio Jr. to carry on his uncle’s legacy.
Mysterio’s breakthrough came when he joined WCW (World Championship Wrestling) in 1996, quickly becoming a fan favorite in the cruiserweight division. He won the WCW Cruiserweight Championship five times, becoming a key figure in elevating lighter, high-flying wrestlers in mainstream American wrestling. His feuds with wrestlers like Dean Malenko and Juventud Guerrera earned him recognition, but his time in WCW also saw setbacks, like being forced to unmask in 1999, which was against his will and deeply upset him.
WWE Journey and Major Achievements
In 2002, Mysterio signed with WWE, where he regained his iconic mask and became one of the company’s most beloved wrestlers. His rivalry with Eddie Guerrero was one of WWE’s most memorable storylines, and Mysterio went on to win several major titles, including the World Heavyweight Championship. Over the years, he held various tag team titles and continued to represent the cruiserweight division as a top star.
Mysterio left WWE in 2015 for a brief period to wrestle in Mexico and Japan, but returned to WWE in 2018 and remains an active competitor, charming fans with his unparalleled athleticism.
Personal Life
Rey Mysterio is married to Angie, and they have two children. The family maintains a private and grounded lifestyle, with Roman Catholic values. Mysterio’s legacy continues in his family, as his son, Dominik, has followed in his footsteps to become a wrestler in WWE.
Controversies
Mysterio’s career has not been without its controversies. In 2007, he was involved in a steroid scandal after being mentioned in a Sports Illustrated article linking WWE wrestlers to illegal substances. This led to a 30-day suspension, but Mysterio defended himself, claiming he had a legal prescription. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the end of the issue, as Mysterio was suspended again in 2012 for similar reasons.
Another dark moment in his career was the tragic death of Perro Aguayo Jr. in 2015. During a match, Mysterio delivered a dropkick that unintentionally caused Aguayo’s death, though it wasn’t initially recognized until later. Mysterio was devastated by the incident, and the event remains one of the most tragedies in wrestling.
Real Estate and Lifestyle
Mysterio resides in Chula Vista, California, in a home valued at $1 million. The property spans 4,000 square feet and features five bedrooms. Inside the house, Mysterio has a collection of tropical fish housed in a large tank, along with a collection of swords and action figures, showcasing his passion for collectibles. Despite his fame, he enjoys a relatively low-key lifestyle focused on his family and personal interests.
Final Thoughts
Rey Mysterio’s career is a testament to his dedication and love for the craft of wrestling. With a net worth of $10 million and a legacy that spans decades, he remains one of the most influential and iconic figures in the wrestling world. Despite controversies and personal challenges, his impact on the sport and the culture of wrestling, particularly in elevating the Lucha Libre style, is undeniable.
